3. 1996: (Overall Batter OPS+ 104)
- Walt Weiss SS
- Ellis Burks CF
- Dante Bichette LF
- Larry Walker RF
- Andres Galarraga 1B
- Vinny Castilla 3B
- Jason Bates 2B
- Jorge Brito C
- Kevin Ritz P
This is one of the most athletic lineups to ever step on any field anywhere. Ellis Burks and Dante Bichette joined the 30/30 club. None of the eight lineup regulars hit below .280. Burks led the team with a slash line of .344/.408/.639 with 40 home runs, 32 stolen bases, and 128 RBI for an OPS+ of 149.
I haven’t even gotten to Eric Young Sr. and his 53 steals. This lineup went to another level when EY Sr. was added as they ended the year with over 200 home runs, doubles, and stolen bases. Leading the league in every offensive category but doubles and triples, where they were second and third, respectively.
I could wax poetic about this lineup forever. Wait … you’re telling me i’m not done? On to the next!