I have 42 cards of Buddy Bell. This one is from 1988 Fleer.
Playing career: Buddy Bell played eighteen years in the
major leagues for the Indians, Rangers, Reds and Astros. A five time all-star,
he was a contact hitter, walking more than he struck out. He had moderate power
– twelve seasons of 10-20 home runs, but never more. Once Brooks Robinson
retired, he was the best defensive third baseman in the American League,
winning six straight Gold Gloves from 1979 to 1984. Stuck on bad teams his
whole career, he played in 2,405 regular season games but zero postseason
games.
Where he is now: After he retired he spent some time in the
White Sox front office, then became the the first base coach for the Indians in
1994 and 1995. He then managed nine seasons for the Tigers, Rockies and Royals,
never finishing better than 82-80. That was interspersed with a couple of
stints as Indians bench coach in the mid-2000s. Since 2009 he has been Head of
Player Development for the White Sox. So, in 32 years as an on-field player,
coach, and manager, he has only reached the postseason once (1995 Indians).
My memories: I remember him as a manager of second-division
teams more than I do as a player for one. Nothing really specific though.
Interesting facts: Son of former major leaguer Gus Bell,
father of former major leaguers David Bell and Mike Bell. Another son, Ricky
Bell, also played in the minor leagues.
Google Autocomplete results: He is sixth when you type Buddy
B, between Buddy Bump, referring to a maternity app, and Buddy Ball, a sports
complex in Orangeburg, NY. Another prominent Buddy Bell is a pastor in
Oklahoma.
Coming up next: The next profile will be David Bell.
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