As we are deep into the Baseball Hall of Fame season, one of the inductees is hopeful to get the logo on his plaque changed from the Montreal Expos to the Chicago Cubs.

Andre Dawson, who was inducted into the Hall in 2010, was enshrined with the Expos cap, but stated all along that he wanted to go in as a Cub.  He is still hopeful of changing it to the iconic Cubs “C”, as reported by the Chicago Tribune, and he has sent letters to the chairman of the Hall of Fame Board of Directors in another effort.  Dawson has long since said that he wanted to go in as a Cub, the team he won his only MVP (1987), despite the longer and more successful statistical tenure with Montreal.

The Hall of Fame rarely makes changes to plaques, and as the Cooperstown-based institution has not corresponded with Dawson, it is unlikely that we will see any changes in bronze.

The son of Felipe Alou, Moises Alou is an interesting case here as we have a player whose sabermetric numbers were good, but he managed to compile traditional numbers that were better, and he was a player who teams wanted in their lineup and fear when he wasn’t for more than a decade.  He is also known more for a foul ball that he probably could not have caught.

Javier Vasquez could be considered to have been a journeyman, as he played for six different teams (and one team twice), but the Puerto Rican hurler was a lot better than he got credit for.

The claim can be made (and we will be among those who make it) that Steve Rogers was the greatest Pitcher in franchise history when the Washington Nationals were in Montreal as the Expos.

Rogers played his entire career with the Expos (1973-85), and he got off to a great start as the runner-up for the Rookie of the Year.  The Expos were not a good team in the 70s, and he twice led the National League in Losses, but most of that could not be put on his shoulders.  Rogers, who was an All-Star in 1974, was again one in 1978 and 1979, and as Montreal improved, the baseball world took notice of their ace.

In 1982, Rogers was an All-Star again, winning the ERA Title (2.40) and finishing second in Cy Young voting.  Rogers was third for the Cy Young the year after, and he was an All-Star for the fifth and final time.  Injuries and arm fatigue caught up with him, and he retired in 1985.

Notably, Rogers was also a respectable hitter, who might have had a low Batting Average (.138), could bunt people over, and he actually led the NL in Sacrifice Hits in 1983.

Rogers retired with a 158-152 record with 1,621 Strikeouts. 

Historically speaking, one of the most important Pitchers in Latin America is Dennis Martinez, and he was also among the longest-tenured.

Martinez broke in with the Baltimore Orioles in 1976, and he became the first player from Nicaragua to make the Majors.  The righthander did well, earning a place in the starting rotation and had five 14-win seasons for the O's, including a league-leading 14 in the strike-shortened 1981 season.  Martinez finished fifth in Cy Young voting that year, but he had an awful 1983 season, with an ERA well over 5.  He was left off of the postseason roster, and the Orioles won the World Series. Martinez continued to struggle, and it was learned that he was a heavy drinker, and alcoholism threatened to end his career early.

The Nicaraguan got clean, but he didn't have time to focus on both pitching and sobriety, and a change of scenery in the form of a 1986 trade to Montreal was just the tonic he needed.  With the Expos, Martinez went to three All-Star Games, won the ERA Title in 1991 (2.39), and had five top-ten finishes in bWAR for Pitchers.  

At age 40, Martinez signed with the Cleveland Indians to have another All-Star year amongst the three he played in Ohio.  He carved out two more years, one with Seattle and one with Atlanta, and Martinez retired with 245 Wins, which at the time placed him first among all Hispanic Pitchers,

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While star players and award-winning closers often make headlines, the true backbone of championships and competitive eras is built by versatile pitchers who fill every role on the staff. For eight seasons, spanning two separate periods with the Montreal Expos, left-hander Dan Schatzeder proved to be the ultimate utility pitcher. Whether stepping in to start unexpectedly, covering multiple innings out of the bullpen, or facing a tough left-handed hitter in a critical late-game situation, "Schatz" consistently responded with a dependable, hard-working style that exceeded what his basic stats might suggest.

His first stint with the Expos in the late 1970s showcased remarkable versatility. Drafted in the third round of 1976, the young southpaw rapidly advanced to the majors, taking on a vital swingman role. His standout achievement from this period was during the impressive 1979 season, where Schatzeder completely shut down National League hitters. He split his time between starting and relieving, finishing with a 10–5 record and a stellar 2.83 ERA over 162 innings. His effectiveness greatly contributed to a 95-win Montreal team that pushed the eventual champion "We Are Family" Pirates to their limits.

Despite his value, the Expos traded Schatzeder to Detroit after the 1979 season. After brief stints in Detroit and San Francisco, he returned "home" to Montreal in 1982 to begin his second, highly productive five-year residency. During this second chapter, Schatzeder transitioned more permanently into a high-volume reliever and spot starter. He routinely absorbed heavy innings loads and proved far more valuable than his surface wins and losses suggested, consistently posting solid ERA+ marks that kept the Expos competitive in a tough NL East.

What truly set Schatzeder apart in Quebec was his exceptional skill with a bat. Before the widespread use of designated hitters, he was recognized as one of the best hitting pitchers in baseball. As a real offensive threat, Schatzeder posted an impressive .260 batting average in Montreal and was often used as a pinch-hitter in crucial moments. His competence at the plate provided his managers with significant tactical options late in games, offering an extra layer of value that typical pitching statistics may miss.

The Expos traded veteran lefty Schatzeder to Philadelphia in 1986, and he won a World Series with Minnesota in 1987. As an Expo, he appeared in 213 games (79 starts), with a 37–31 record, 3.52 ERA, and 1.29 WHIP. Over 692.2 innings, he struck out 401 batters.

This transaction stands out as one of the most notable footnotes in franchise history. In August 1990, the Montreal Expos traded pitcher Zane Smith to the Pittsburgh Pirates for Moises Alou, who was initially listed as the "Player to be Named Later." At that moment, Alou was a promising but inexperienced prospect, having only played two major league games. By the time he left Montreal six years later, he had become widely known and had secured his role as the focal point of an exceptional, world-class outfield, guided directly by his father, legendary manager Felipe Alou.

Alou’s rise in Montreal showcased exceptional bat speed and physical resilience. After recovering from a severe ankle injury in 1993 that ended his season, he returned in 1994 to deliver a standout performance. He dominated National League pitching, hitting .339 with 31 doubles, 22 home runs, and 78 RBIs in just 107 games. His outstanding offense earned him his first All-Star appearance, a Silver Slugger Award, and a third-place finish in NL MVP voting, helping the Expos maintain baseball’s best record before the strike brought play to a halt.

Far from a single-summer peak, Alou remained a premier, high-leverage force in the middle of the order. He backed up his breakout campaign by hitting .273 with 21 home runs in 1996, helping guide a transitioning Expos roster to a highly competitive 88-win season. He possessed a beautifully balanced right-handed swing and a rare knack for delivering in critical situations, routinely punishing pitchers who dared to challenge him with runners on base.

However, as was common during this period of Montreal baseball, the financial constraints of a small-market team ended his tenure early. Knowing they couldn't compete with the high offers from free agency, the team saw their star outfielder leave after the 1996 season. Alou then signed with the Florida Marlins, contributing immediately to their 1997 World Series victory, and went on to have an outstanding 17-year career in Major League Baseball.

Alou played 594 games with the Expos, amassing 598 hits, 122 doubles, 84 home runs, and 335 RBIs. He stole 51 bases and posted a .292/.354/483 slash line with a 124 OPS.

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+.

Uncovering a hidden talent in professional baseball often means searching beyond the usual areas. For Mike Lansing, the Montreal Expos discovered their long-term second baseman through an unexpected route. Originally drafted from Wichita State by the Miami Miracle, an independent minor league team, Lansing was later sold to Montreal in late 1991. Known as "The Laser" because of his quick reflexes and sharp line-drive swing, the dedicated infielder made his debut in 1993 and quickly secured the starting second base position, bringing a competitive edge to a talented young core.

His early years in Quebec featured consistent, line-drive hitting and dependable middle-infield defense. Lansing was a key part of the troubled 1994 team, offering consistent contact and speed near the bottom of the lineup while anchoring the infield with shortstop Wil Cordero. After a brief offensive decline in 1995, he bounced back to deliver a standout performance in the 1996 season. That summer, Lansing completely paralyzed National League pitching by racking up a career-high 183 hits across 159 games. He weaponized his gap-to-gap approach to lash 40 doubles, smash 11 home runs, and score 99 runs, all while batting a stellar .285 to keep the transitioning Expos right in the thick of a highly competitive wild-card chase.

After his breakout performance, he showcased his raw power again in 1997. Moving into a key spot in the middle of the lineup, Lansing hit .281 with a career-best 20 home runs and 70 RBIs. On May 7, 1997, against the San Francisco Giants, he made franchise history by becoming the first National League second baseman in over a hundred years to hit two home runs in one inning.

As was typical for Montreal baseball, individual excellence signaled a departure. With no money to re-sign him, the Expos traded the veteran second baseman to the Rockies in November 1997 in a deal that included minor leaguers like Jake Westbrook. Lansing later had productive years in Colorado, including hitting for the cycle in four innings.

As an Expo, Lansing had 702 hits, 147 doubles, 49 home runs, and 255 RBIs. He stole 79 bases and posted a .274/.322/410 slash line.

Larry Parrish's journey with Montreal is a tale of assertive authority dominating the hot corner amid high hopes in Quebec. Signed as an undrafted amateur free agent in 1972, this Florida native was a raw yet powerful athlete who rapidly developed in the minors. By 1975, he earned the regular third base position, showcasing a commanding physique and a forceful right-handed swing that embodied the tough, determined spirit of the emerging Expos team.

His initial seasons in Montreal were characterized by a strenuous combination of notable offensive potential and developmental challenges in the defensive aspect. Parrish was a prolific run scorer, yet his aggressive approach at third base initially resulted in a high number of errors. Nonetheless, he rapidly gained the admiration of fans, owing to some of the most remarkable individual game performances in the history of the franchise. Parrish continues to be the sole player in Expos history to hit three home runs in a single game on three distinct occasions, intimidating opposing pitchers with his swift and powerful batting stroke.

His standout achievement with the Expos occurred during the remarkable 1979 season. Parrish overwhelmed National League pitchers, hitting a career-best .307 with 39 doubles, 30 home runs, and 82 RBIs. He combined his power with a.551 slugging percentage and a .909 OPS, earning his first All-Star selection, the Expos Player of the Year award, and finishing fourth in the National League MVP race. His clutch performance helped lead a 95-win Montreal team that fought the Pirates until the final weekend.

Though injuries and a slight regression in his timing slowed his production over the next two years, his grit remained vital. During the strike-shortened 1981 season, he shrugged off a summer-long slump to emerge as the team's hottest hitter in September, driving in 25 runs down the stretch to propel the Expos to their first-ever postseason berth. As the front office planned for the future and aimed to integrate rookie Tim Wallach at third base, they capitalized on Parrish's trade value. In March 1982, Montreal traded him to the Texas Rangers in a significant deal for veteran outfielder Al Oliver.

With Montreal, he had 896 hits, 209 doubles, 24 triples, 100 home runs, and 444 RBIs, with a solid .263/.315/423 slash line and an above-average 106 OPS+.

Great closers are characterized by their unwavering confidence when pitching, but John Wetteland brought an additional element of physical intimidation to the ninth inning. After joining the Montreal Expos from the Cincinnati Reds in December 1991, this broad-shouldered right-hander showcased a blazing fastball in the high-90s and a fierce competitive spirit. During a focused three-year period in French Canada, Wetteland evolved from a talented yet inconsistent young pitcher into one of the most dominant and feared closers in Major League Baseball, setting the benchmark for late-inning mastery.

His debut at the Stade Olympique bullpen in 1992 immediately highlighted his elite power pitching. Taking on the vacant closer role, Wetteland overwhelmed National League batters, earning 37 saves and striking out 99 batters in only 83.1 innings. His knack for consistently missing bats in crucial moments provided Montreal with a psychological advantage, making any late-inning lead nearly unassailable.

The following summer, he further honed his skills, delivering a standout performance during the 1993 season. With an impressive 1.37 ERA and a 1.012 WHIP, Wetteland used his power pitching to achieve a career-best 43 saves. He struck out 113 batters in 85.1 innings, with over 44% of his recorded outs coming from strikeouts.

In the 1994 season, he was a highly effective reliever, recording 25 saves for the Expos, who had the best record in baseball before the strike ended the season early. However, the financial consequences of the strike led Montreal to trade him to the New York Yankees in April 1995 to reduce payroll. Wetteland gained national fame with the Yankees, earning the 1996 World Series MVP and making three All-Star appearances with both the Yankees and Texas Rangers. Nonetheless, the core skills that defined his elite closing career were firmly established while he played in Canada.

Wetteland pitched in 189 relief Games, with a 17–13 record, 2.32 ERA, and 1.09 WHIP. Over 232.1 innings, he secured 105 saves, struck out 280 batters, and posted a 167 ERA+.

Few players in baseball history have ever matched the pure, theatrical charisma of Pascual Pérez, but underneath the eccentric mannerisms lay a profoundly sharp pitching mind. Signed by Montreal in August 1987 after a drug suspension and release by Atlanta had nearly derailed his career, the Dominican right-hander found a second home in Canada. Known to fans as "I-285" and famous for his flamboyant antics—including peeking through his legs to check runners, sprinting off the mound after strikeouts, and throwing a legendary "pascual ball" eephus pitch—Pérez completely reinvented his approach at Stade Olympique, morphing from a wild thrower into a command-oriented artist.

His late 1987 entrance was a crucial boost for the Expos during their intense pennant race. Over his last ten starts, he dominated Senior Circuit batters, going 7–0 with a tiny 2.30 ERA. His unwavering confidence on the mound captivated Toronto, showing that his time off hadn’t cooled his competitive spirit at all.

Pérez built on his remarkable introduction by crafting a standout season in 1988. Demonstrating exceptional control and mastery in run prevention, he finished with a 12–8 record and an impressive 2.44 ERA across 28 starts. That summer, he pitched four shutouts, including a rain-shortened five-inning no-hitter, but his most defining trait was his extraordinary efficiency, leading the National League with a tiny 0.941 WHIP.

He maintained this exceptional performance into the 1989 season. Despite the Expos' often limited run support, Pérez continued to be a top starter, using his deceptive pitching to overpower batters. He ended the year with a 9–13 record but a strong 3.31 ERA, and led the National League with an outstanding 4.13 strikeouts per walk ratio, issuing only 31 walks over 198.1 innings.

As his contract ended after the 1989 season, the veteran right-hander took advantage of his strong performance in Montreal by securing a lucrative free-agent contract with the New York Yankees. Despite shoulder problems and later suspensions that greatly reduced his playing opportunities in the American League, his three summers wearing the tri-color cap represented the pinnacle of his career.

With the Expos, Pérez appeared in 66 games (all starts), posting a 28–21 record, 2.80 ERA, 1.05 WHIP over 469.1 innings. He had 13 complete games, four shutouts, and 335 strikeouts with 93 walks, resulting in a 131 ERA+.

To understand the sheer dominance of the Montreal Expos in the early 1990s, one need only look at the trade that brought Ken Hill to Quebec. In November 1991, the Expos sent budding star Andrés Galarraga to St. Louis in exchange for Hill. While losing "The Big Cat" was a tough pill for local fans to swallow, Hill immediately sweetened the deal by transforming into the unquestioned, high-velocity ace of a pitching staff that would soon capture the imagination of the baseball world.

His arrival in Montreal in 1992 represented an exemplary demonstration of leadership in frontline rotation. Equipped with a powerful, sinking fastball and an assertive approach, Hill effectively dominated National League hitters during his debut season, recording a 16–9 win-loss record, an impressive 2.68 ERA, and pitching 218 innings. He provided the Expos with a genuine top-of-the-rotation pitcher capable of outperforming any ace in the Senior Circuit, thereby immediately substantiating Montreal's claim for NL East dominance.

Despite some challenges with run support in his 1993 campaign, Hill delivered his greatest career achievement during the notable 1994 season. Playing with relentless intensity and high-leverage pitching, he led the league with a 16–5 record and maintained a 3.32 ERA across 154.2 innings. He topped the National League in wins, earned his first All-Star selection, and finished second to Greg Maddux for the NL Cy Young Award. His consistent mound presence was key to Montreal's impressive 74–40 record before a strike interrupted their pursuit of a world championship.

Sadly, the financial fallout of that strike meant the small-market Expos had to let Hill go, trading him back to the St. Louis Cardinals in April 1995 just as the season resumed. Hill would later be traded to Cleveland that summer, helping guide them to the 1995 World Series, and enjoyed a highly successful 14-year major league odyssey.

Hill appeared in 91 games (all starts), with a 41–21 record, 3.04 ERA, 1.20 WHIP over 581.1 innings. He had eight complete games, four shutouts, 377 strikeouts, and a 127 ERA+.

When the Montreal Expos traded franchise icon Gary Carter to the New York Mets in December 1984, it caused a significant public relations setback. To soothe an angry fan base, new players had to make an immediate impact. Although no player could replace "The Kid," Hubie Brooks arrived in Quebec and quickly became the offensive catalyst for the post-Carter era. Originally a natural third baseman with the Mets, Brooks generously moved to shortstop in Montreal, developing into one of the top middle infielders for producing runs in the league.

His debut before the Stade Olympique crowd showcased exceptional offensive versatility. Brooks dominated National League pitchers in his first 1985 season, hitting .269 with 34 doubles, 13 home runs, and a career-best 100 RBIs. His clutch performance at the plate earned him his first Silver Slugger Award, demonstrating his ability to perform under the pressure of stepping into a legendary player's role in the middle of the lineup.

He maintained his elite offensive gear through that summer. In 1986, Brooks elevated his performance, hitting a career-high .340 with 14 home runs and 58 RBIs in just 80 games before a torn thumb ligament ended his season early. Despite the injury, his outstanding performance earned him his first All-Star selection and a second Silver Slugger Award in a row. Recovered and healthy in 1987, he made another All-Star appearance and drove in 72 runs, helping Montreal stay competitive in the exciting NL East race.

As years went by, playing shortstop on Montreal's tough turf took a toll, leading him to move to right field and third base. His defensive range was often limited and criticized, but his consistent, respected bat remained strong. After 1989, as the Expos focused on youth, Brooks left in free agency to rejoin the Mets, leaving a legacy of powerful middle-infield performance.

As an Expo, Brooks compiled 689 hits, 128 doubles, 75 home runs, and 390 RBIs. While generating a solid .272/.314/.418 slash line.

Before the rise of highly specialized, one-inning bullpen specialists, relief pitchers in Major League Baseball needed a rare combination of durability and versatility. In Montreal, Tim Burke exemplified that adaptability. Acquired from the Texas Rangers organization in late 1982, this right-hander spent seven seasons as a key figure in the Expos’ bullpen. With a strong sinking fastball and remarkable lateral movement, Burke was capable of calming fires in the sixth inning or closing out games in the ninth with equal effectiveness.

Burke's 1985 debut showcased remarkable rookie quick adaptation. Instead of being sheltered in low-pressure roles, he was instantly activated as the team's top multi-inning reliever. His performance overwhelmed National League hitters, leading the Senior Circuit with 78 appearances and pitching an impressive 120.1 innings in relief. He finished with a 9–4 record, a tight 2.39 ERA, and eight saves, making him one of the most successful and heavily utilized rookies in the majors that summer.

Although Burke’s rookie workload was heavy enough to challenge anyone less durable, he stayed remarkably resilient, acting as the key setup man for closer Jeff Reardon. After Reardon's departure, Burke smoothly took over as the main closer, delivering an outstanding season in 1989. That year, he excelled with a career-best 28 saves, a 2.55 ERA, and a 1.063 WHIP across 84.1 innings. His performance earned him his first and only All-Star selection while helping a competitive Expos team.

By the early 1990s, the heavy mileage from his relentless use began to catch up to him. Seeking to capitalize on his value before his efficiency dipped further, Montreal traded the veteran closer to the New York Mets in mid-1991. Although he would finish his career with brief stints in New York and with the Yankees, his peak as an elite late-innings weapon was undeniably achieved in the tri-color cap of the Expos.

With Montreal, Burke played in 425 relief games, posting a 32–31 record with a 2.71 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 101 saves, and 343 strikeouts over 600.2 innings, achieving a 137 ERA+.

In the early 1980s, the Montreal Expos featured a young, powerful starting rotation that was among the best in the National League. Central to that group was Bill Gullickson. Picked second overall in the 1977 draft, the tall right-hander arrived in French Canada with high expectations. Unlike many top prospects of his time, Gullickson not only met these expectations but also became known for his durability and aggressive pitching, making him one of the most underrated pitchers of his era.

His debut in the major leagues in 1980 was an exceptional example of rookie performance. Gullickson completely overwhelmed National League hitters, finishing with a 10–5 record and an impressive 3.00 ERA. The most memorable moment of his rookie season occurred on September 10, when he set a rookie record by striking out 18 Chicago Cubs at Stade Olympique—a remarkable display of skill that contributed to his second-place finish behind Steve Howe for the National League Rookie of the Year Award.

While old-school baseball card collectors focused mainly on Gullickson’s wins and losses, modern analytics show that his underlying efficiency was even more impressive than previously recognized. In the strike-shortened 1981 season, he was possibly the most effective pitcher in the Senior Circuit, with a 2.80 ERA. Although the official box scores credited him with seven wins, he quietly led the National League with a remarkably low 2.11 FIP (Fielding Independent Pitching)—demonstrating how he truly mastered the game independent of defensive support.

He then became a key, high-volume pitcher, recording over 220 innings in back-to-back seasons. In 1984, Gullickson demonstrated exceptional control, issuing only 39 walks in 225.2 innings, leading the National League with a mere 1.5 walks per nine innings.

Heavy workloads reduced his strikeout rates, leading the small-market Expos to trade him to the Reds in December 1985 as part of a multi-player deal. Gullickson then had a productive journeyman career, including a stint in Japan and a 20-win season with the Tigers.  Gullickson appeared in 195 games (186 starts), with a 72–61 record, a 3.44 ERA, and a 1.20 WHIP. He pitched 1,273.1 innings, with 33 complete games, nine shutouts, and 654 strikeouts.

Prior to achieving recognition as an unprecedented cultural phenomenon and serving as the league MVP in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball, Warren Cromartie was a fundamental pillar of the Montreal Expos' illustrious era. Drafted in the first round by the team in 1973, "Cro" exhibited a refined, high-contact left-handed swing that seamlessly complemented the speed and athleticism of Montreal's emerging young core. Through his association with Andre Dawson and Ellis Valentine, Cromartie contributed to one of the most dynamic, homegrown outfields in the history of baseball, playing an essential role in the transformation of Stade Olympique into a hub of excitement during the late 1970s.

In 1977, Cromartie took on a key daily role and quickly demonstrated himself as a top run producer. His rookie season set a strong foundation, hitting .282 with 41 doubles—showing that his gap-to-gap style was ideal for Montreal's fast turf.

His definitive standout performance in an Expos uniform occurred during the 1980 season. Cromartie overwhelmed National League pitchers by posting a career-best .288 batting average, along with 14 home runs and 70 RBIs, all while playing in every one of the 162 games. He enhanced his offensive output with 36 doubles, serving as the reliable, high-volume leadoff hitter and occasional first baseman for a star-laden lineup that fought the Phillies in a historic NL East race.

While his power numbers were modest, Cromartie was a model of durability and consistency. He routinely hit double-digit home runs and remained incredibly difficult to strike out, providing a reliable, contact-oriented presence in the middle of the order. His infectious energy, trademark enthusiasm, and frequent crowd interactions made him one of the most beloved personalities in Quebec sports history.

After the 1983 campaign, Cromartie signed with the Yomiuri Giants in Tokyo, where he achieved legendary success. He appeared in 1,038 games, with 1,104 hits, 226 doubles, 30 triples, 61 home runs, and 391 RBIs, maintaining a solid .281/.336/400 slash line.

In the late 1970s, the Montreal Expos boasted an outfield that was the envy of baseball—a young, dynamic trio of Andre Dawson, Warren Cromartie, and Ellis Valentine. Among them, Valentine possessed perhaps the most tantalizing ceiling. Selected in the second round of the 1972 draft out of Los Angeles, he developed into a physical marvel who paired a fluid, high-velocity swing with what was universally considered the most feared throwing arm in the game. From his post in right field, Valentine turned throwing out tagging runners into a spectator sport, routinely unleashing absolute frozen ropes that defied belief.

His peak years in Canada were a spectacular display of all-around baseball talent. He exploded onto the national radar in 1977, putting together an individual masterpiece at just 22 years old. Valentine hit a sparkling .293 with 25 home runs and 76 RBIs, earning his first career All-Star selection.

He continued his impressive performance in 1978, earning a Gold Glove Award for his defensive excellence. That year, he led the National League with 25 home runs. By 1978, after hitting another 21 home runs, he achieved three straight summers of over 20 homers, solidifying his reputation as a top middle-of-the-order hitter.

Yet, Valentine’s journey in Montreal was also defined by a sudden, devastating physical setback. In May 1980, he was struck in the face by a pitch from Roy Thomas, which shattered his cheekbone. The injury sidelined him for more than a month and, more critically, altered his aggression at the plate as he struggled to regain his previous comfort level against inside pitching.

In May 1981, amid reduced offensive output and increasing behind-the-scenes tensions, the front office leveraged his market value to trade him to the New York Mets for promising closer Jeff Reardon. Valentine displayed moments of his former brilliance in New York and Texas, yet he struggled to fully recover the steady excellence of his peak before injury.

In Montreal, Valentine played 663 games, with 676 hits, 121 doubles, 95 home runs, and 374 RBIs. He posted a .283/.342/462 line (121 OPS+) and recorded 59 outfield assists, showcasing his strong arm.

When the Montreal Expos traded third baseman Larry Parrish to the Texas Rangers in March 1982, they did so to acquire a pure, unadulterated hitting machine. Al Oliver, affectionately known as "Scoop," was a highly seasoned, vocal leader who had spent a decade lashing line drives all over the National League. Though he would only spend two seasons wearing the tri-color cap, Oliver treated Canadian fans to a pair of the most historically concentrated and dominant offensive exhibitions ever witnessed in the franchise's history.

His inaugural 1982 campaign in Montreal stands as a clinic of batting prowess. Oliver completely paced the league with a sparkling .331 batting average to capture the National League batting title. He terrorized opponents with a career-high 204 hits, while also leading the league in doubles (43), RBIs (109), total bases (317), and extra-base hits. This offensive explosion earned him an All-Star nod, a Silver Slugger, and a highly competitive third-place finish in the National League MVP voting.

Rather than showing signs of regression at age 36, he backed up his stellar debut with an equally impressive 1983 follow-up. Oliver earned another All-Star selection, again leading the National League in doubles (38) while batting a crisp .300 with 84 runs batted in. He remained a highly disciplined, contact-oriented presence in the middle of the order, striking out only 44 times in 617 plate appearances to serve as the team’s most reliable offensive engine.

Yet, for all his batting genius, Oliver’s time in Montreal was heavily countered by a stark defensive reality. Forced to play first base on the unforgiving Stade Olympique turf, he was a persistent liability. He led all National League first basemen in errors in both 1982 (17 errors) and 1983 (15 errors), routinely negating a portion of his brilliant run production with defensive miscues. As a result, the Expos traded the aging veteran to San Francisco in February 1984.

In his two seasons with the Expos, Oliver accumulated 389 hits, 81 doubles, 30 home runs, and 193 RBIs, posting a spectacular .316/.355/469 slash line—good for an exceptional 131 OPS+.