January 5, 2015

The 1993 season was Biggio’s fifth full season in the big leagues and began a stretch in which he dominated at the plate. His average fWAR over these seasons was 5.8, with a high of 9.3 coming during the 1997 season. This streak, along with 13 other productive seasons, allowed Biggio to enter rare company.

Biggio is also the only player in MLB history with at least 3,000 hits, 600 doubles, 400 stolen bases, and 250 home runs. Quite an impressive feat. He was also well-received during his playing days, as he racked up seven All-Star game appearances, five Silver Slugger awards, and four Gold Gloves, if you care about those things.

Biggio was a unique player in that he had the ability to hit for power, while still getting on base at a high clip, and was an adept base stealer. Entering the big leagues as a catcher, he was also athletic enough to make the switch to the outfield before eventually being converted into a full-time second baseman. With second basemen like Robinson Cano, Dustin Pedroia, Ian Kinsler, and Chase Utley Utley showing us that offensive talent can be produced from this position, it’s hard to say that there won’t be (or hasn’t already been) another Craig Biggio.

Nonetheless, Biggio’s considerable achievements should not be overlooked, and his being enshrined in the Hall of Fame guarantees they will not be.