Ken Singleton
The switch-hitting outfielder and designated hitter who anchored the Orioles' lineup to a World Series title.
Born in Manhattan and raised in Mount Vernon, New York, he played Major League Baseball as an outfielder and designated hitter between 1970 and 1984. A three-time All-Star (1977, 1979, 1981), Singleton was a pivotal member of the 1983 World Series championship team. Before his time in Baltimore, he played for the New York Mets and Montreal Expos. In 1982, he received the Roberto Clemente Award, recognizing his character and community service.
- primary_position
- Outfielder / Designated Hitter
- main_affiliation
- Baltimore Orioles
- major_honor
- Roberto Clemente Award (1982), 1983 World Series Champion, 3-time All-Star (1977
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Singleton's career took a definitive turn on December 4, 1974, when the Baltimore Orioles acquired him from the Montreal Expos for Dave McNally, Rich Coggins, and Bill Kirkpatrick. Over the next decade, he played the best baseball of his career, helping the Orioles win pennants in 1979 and 1983. His 1977 season was a statistical peak; he posted a .328 batting average and a .438 on-base percentage, both career highs. That year, he finished second in American League Wins Above Replacement (WAR) behind only Rod Carew, with an On-base plus slugging (OPS) of .945 that ranked third. In 1979, Singleton established franchise records for a switch-hitter by hitting 35 home runs and driving in 111 runs. These performances earned him second place in the American League Most Valuable Player Award voting behind Don Baylor. Manager Earl Weaver described him as "the kind of hitter who can start a rally by getting on base or end one by driving in the winning run," though his only deficiency was speed, having stolen just 21 bases in 57 career attempts.
In Their Own Story
On April 5, 1972, Singleton's path to Baltimore began when the New York Mets traded him, along with Tim Foli and Mike Jorgensen, to the Montreal Expos for Rusty Staub. His best year in Montreal came in 1973, where he led the league in on-base percentage while collecting 23 home runs, 103 RBIs, and a .302 batting average. However, it was his move to Baltimore that defined his legacy. During his final major league game on September 25, 1984, at age 37, the Orioles chose not to renew his option three days later. Over 15 seasons, he accumulated 2,029 hits and 246 home runs. His time in Baltimore ended with a World Series ring in 1983 and induction into the Orioles Hall of Fame in 1986, cementing his status as one of the franchise's all-time offensive leaders.
Reader's Guide
Fans looking to understand Singleton's impact should focus on his versatility as an outfielder and designated hitter who accumulated 2,029 hits in a 7,189 at-bat career for a .282 average. His .388 career on-base percentage highlights his patience, while his .945 OPS in 1977 remains a high-water mark. He is also notable for being a switch-hitter who set a franchise record with 35 home runs in 1979 until Anthony Santander surpassed it in 2024. Beyond the field, Singleton transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, serving as a color commentator for the New York Yankees on the YES Network and WPIX from 1997 to 2021. He is also known for his trademark calls like "This one is gone" for home runs and calling a pitch down the heart of the plate a "cookie." His cousin is former NBA player and coach Glenn "Doc" Rivers, and he continues to serve on the Board of Directors for the Cool Kids Campaign in Maryland.
Did You Know?
- Singleton was drafted by the New York Mets in the first round as the third overall pick in January 1967 and signed for a $10,000 bonus.
- He played his final major league game on September 25, 1984, at age 37, and was dropped by the Orioles just three days later.
- In 1986, Bill James' wife Susan McCarthy selected Singleton as one of the best-looking players of the 1970s in The Bill James Historical Baseball Abstract.
- Singleton is a cousin of former NBA player and Philadelphia 76ers head coach Glenn "Doc" Rivers.
- He hosted the Celebrity Golf Tournament each June as part of his role on the Board of Directors for the Cool Kids Campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ken Singleton?
He was a switch-hitting outfielder and designated hitter who played in Major League Baseball from 1970 to 1984. Although he started with the Mets and Expos, he became most famous for his time with the Baltimore Orioles.
What teams did Ken Singleton play for?
Before joining Baltimore, Singleton played professionally for the New York Mets and the Montreal Expos. He spent the majority of his impactful career anchoring the lineup for the Orioles until his retirement in 1984.
What major awards did Ken Singleton win?
In 1982, he was honored with the Roberto Clemente Award for his outstanding character and community service efforts. He also earned selection to the All-Star team three times during his career in 1977, 1979, and 1981.
What is Ken Singleton's biggest achievement with the Orioles?
He served as a key player on the roster that won the World Series title in 1983. His versatility as a switch-hitter helped anchor the lineup during this championship season.
Where was Ken Singleton from?
Singleton was originally born in Manhattan and later grew up in Mount Vernon, New York. This New York upbringing preceded his long professional baseball career which included significant time in Baltimore.