If you’re a fan of baseball, then there’s no doubt you know who Dale Murphy is. The two-time National League MVP was one of the greatest players of his era and will always be remembered as one of the all-time greats. We’ve rounded up five of his most memorable moments from his storied career, so let’s take a look!
The Back-to-Back MVPs (1982 & 1983)
In 1982, Dale Murphy became just the seventh player to win back-to-back NL MVP awards. This was an impressive feat and showed that he was truly one of the best players in the league at that time. Along with this accolade, he also managed to hit 36 home runs and drive in 109 runs that year. He followed this up with an even better season in 1983 when he hit .302 with 37 home runs and 121 RBIs en route to winning another MVP award.
The All-Star Game Heroics (1985)
In 1985, Dale Murphy stepped up to the plate for what would be one of his most iconic moments in baseball history. With the game tied 4-4 in the bottom of the twelfth inning, he hit a solo home run to break it open and give his team a 5-4 victory. His heroics earned him MVP honors for that game and cemented his legacy as one of baseball’s greats.
The Streak Ends (1987)
Murphy had been on an incredible streak since 1981—he had been selected to every All Star game since then until 1987 when he did not make it onto the roster due to a slump in production during that season. This ended what was arguably one of baseball’s longest streaks at seven consecutive years being named an All Star player! It was certainly heartbreaking for fans to see it end, but Murphy still held onto his title as one of baseball’s greatest heroes.
The 300 Club (1988)
In 1988, Murphy achieved something only few others had done—hitting 300 home runs during their careers! On August 12th, 1988, he notched his 300th career dinger against future Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan while playing for Atlanta Braves. It was definitely a special moment for him and all those who witnessed it—even more so because it came off Ryan’s signature pitch—the fastball!
The Retirement Speech (1993)
In 1993, after sixteen seasons with both Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies, Dale Murphy retired from professional baseball. His retirement speech is still remembered today as one filled with emotion and gratitude towards all those who supported him throughout his career—from teammates to coaches and fans alike. He thanked them all before finally taking off his uniform for good; a fitting end to an illustrious career!
Dale Murphy remains one of baseball’s biggest legends today thanks in no small part to these five memorable moments from throughout his career. From winning back-to-back MVP awards to hitting 300 home runs and delivering an emotional retirement speech; each event has served as testament not only to just how great a player he was but also how beloved by fans everywhere! If you haven’t already checked out some old footage or recordings from these five moments we highly recommend doing so – they are sure to take you down memory lane!
Dale Murphy Ceramic Tile Coaster
