Bill Buckner will forever be remembered for the Mookie Wilson ground ball that went through his legs in the sixth game of the 1986 World Series and cost Boston the championship, but he should be remembered as an outstanding hitter and fielder who overcame serious injuries. A consistent outfielder with the Dodgers (1969-76), he went with Ivan DeJesus to the Cubs for Rick Monday. Shifting to first base, Buckner hit .300 with Chicago (1977-84), won the 1980 batting title and twice led the league in doubles (1981 and ’83). Playing on gimpy ankles, Buckner had outstanding seasons at Boston in 1985 and 1986 after coming over for Dennis Eckersley. He tied a major league record by playing 162 games at first base in 1985 and broke the ML record he set in 1983 for assists at the position with 184. Entering the 1990 season, he led all active players with 2,707 career hits.
