Houston Astros: CTH’s Top-25 Astros All-Time Hitters

#10th All-Time Hitter

Bob Watson by Cody Poage

Before he became known as a front office executive, Bob “Bull” Watson established himself as one of the Astros most notable players in early franchise history.

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Originally a catcher in the minor leagues, Watson would eventually convert to first base and the outfield during his playing career. He made his major league debut in 1966 and was a fixture in the Astros lineup until about half way through the 1979 season. During his time in Houston, Watson became well-known for being a solid hitter with respectable power numbers in spite of playing in the spacious Astrodome for the bulk of his career. He was also voted into two All-Star games in 1973 and 1975. Statistically, Watson posted his best season in 1977 when he hit 22 HR and 110 RBI while producing a 4.8 WAR.

Watson also finds himself in the middle of significant moments in baseball history. For example, he scored what was then thought as the 1,000,000th run in major league history in 1975. He would also become the first hitter in MLB history to hit for the cycle in both leagues; once with the Astros in 1977 and once with the Boston Red Sox in 1979.

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