An elite switch-hitter can neutralize opposing pitchers’ strategies. In April 1972, when the Montreal Expos traded Rusty Staub to the New York Mets, they gained Ken Singleton, a tall 6-foot-4 batter recognized for his keen batting eye. Singleton's composed approach at the plate distinguished him in French Canada; he carefully avoided widening his strike zone, making walks a significant offensive advantage and achieving some of the best on-base statistics of the 1970s.
His 1972 introduction to the Jarry Park faithful showed his disciplined style, but it was his 1973 season that truly displayed his offensive skill. Singleton appeared in all 162 games, maintaining a precise and high-pressure hitting approach that overwhelmed National League pitchers. He achieved a .302 batting average, hit 23 home runs, and had 103 RBIs, setting a franchise record for RBIs in a single season that would stand for ten years.
That summer, his most notable trait was his exceptional command of the strike zone. Singleton issued an impressive 123 walks, leading the Major Leagues and achieving a remarkable .425 on-base percentage. This unique combination of patience and power helped the young Expos make their first serious run at a pennant, securing Singleton a deserving ninth-place spot in the National League MVP voting.
He followed this with another highly disciplined season in 1974, drawing 93 walks and maintaining a solid .385 on-base percentage despite a decline in his power numbers. However, with a significant shortage of starting pitchers, the small-market Expos leveraged his increasing value. In December 1974, Montreal traded Singleton and Mike Torrez to the Baltimore Orioles in a franchise-changing deal. While Singleton later gained national fame, three All-Star selections, and a World Series victory with Baltimore, his reputation as an elite on-base player was originally established with Montreal.
He had 449 hits, 69 doubles, 46 home runs, and 227 RBIs. With 286 walks and 274 strikeouts, he posted a .284/.392/424 slash line and a 127 OPS+.
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