MLB Players with More Home Runs in Playoffs Than Regular Season

Have you ever wondered if an MLB player has ever hit more home runs during the playoffs in a single season compared to their regular-season performances? The answer is a resounding yes. Let’s dive into the fascinating stories of three players who have achieved this feat.

Tom Lawless - The Confident Game-Changer

Tom Lawless, a part-time player for the St. Louis Cardinals in 1987, managed to achieve an incredible milestone that few can match. In his entire career, which spanned eight seasons, Lawless hit just two home runs during the regular season. However, during the playoffs, he managed to hit one home run, proving that while regular-season performance can be subpar, playoff dominance is possible.

In the 1987 World Series, Lawless faced the Minnesota Twins. Despite going just 2-for-25, including a double, he delivered a memorable three-run home run in Game 4 at home in St. Louis. Facing Twins ace Frank Viola, Lawless’ home run was not only the decisive blow, but it also came with an amusing celebration - something that was quite uncommon during that era.

Watch the replay of Lawless’ home run to see his confident celebration at the 1:00 mark.

Scott Podsednik - The Walk-off Hero

Scott Podsednik, another name that shone during the playoffs, is remembered for his incredible postseason performance. Podsednik had 568 plate appearances during the regular season of 2005, hitting no home runs. However, he more than made up for it during the playoffs. He hit a crucial three-run home run in the Division Series against Boston in a 12-2 blowout win.

Podsednik’s biggest moment came in Game 2 of the 2005 World Series against the Houston Astros. Facing the Texans’ closer, Brad Lidge, Podsednik hit a game-winning walk-off home run, securing the victory for the White Sox. This moment not only put the team up two games to none but also secured their road to a series sweep.

Podsednik’s walk-off home run on October 23, 2005, is a testament to the unpredictability of postseason baseball and the glory moments that players can achieve right when their regular-season performances are underwhelming.

Mickey Lolich - The Rare Pinch-Hitter

Mickey Lolich, the unsung hero of the 1968 World Series, is another interesting case. Lolich only hit one home run in his entire professional career - the one he hit in Game 2 of the 1968 World Series off Nelson Briles. This was the only home run of his career in either Major League Baseball (MLB) or in the minors during both the regular season and the postseason.

While this is a rare feat, it shows that just one big moment can change the course of a player’s career or the outcome of a game. Lolich’s home run in the 1968 World Series is a testament to the unpredictability of baseball and the impact a single moment can have.

Conclusion

These players, Tom Lawless, Scott Podsednik, and Mickey Lolich, illustrate the unique moments that can happen in the playoffs where a player’s performance suddenly takes a dramatic turn. Regular season performances do not always reflect a player’s capabilities, and it is these rare moments in the playoffs that can define a player’s career. From hitting a home run to flipping the bat confidently, these moments are what make baseball such an exciting and unpredictable sport.