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Joe Morgan
Joe Morgan
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Joe Leonard Morgan (September 19, 1943 – October 11, 2020) was an American professional baseball second baseman who played 22 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Houston Colt .45s / Astros, Cincinnati Reds, San Francisco Giants, Philadelphia Phillies, and Oakland Athletics from 1963 to 1984. He won two World Series championships with the Reds in 1975 and 1976 and was also named the National League Most Valuable Player in each of those years. Considered one of the greatest second basemen of all time, Morgan was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1990 in his first year of eligibility.

Key Information

After retiring as an active player, Morgan became a baseball broadcaster for the Reds, Giants, ABC, and ESPN, as well as a stint in the mid-to-late 1990s on NBC's postseason telecasts, teamed with Bob Costas and Bob Uecker. He hosted a weekly nationally syndicated radio show on Sports USA, while serving as a special advisor to the Reds.

Playing career

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Morgan was African American[1] and the oldest of six children. Born in Bonham, Texas, he lived there until he was five years old. His family then moved to Oakland, California. Morgan was nicknamed "Little Joe" for his diminutive 5-foot-7-inch (1.70 m) stature. As a youth, he played American Legion baseball on a team sponsored by Post 471 in Oakland.[2] Morgan was a standout baseball player at Castlemont High School, but did not receive any offers from major league teams due to his size. He played college baseball at Oakland City College before being signed by the Houston Colt .45s as an amateur free agent in 1962, receiving a $3,000 signing bonus and a $500 per month salary.[3]

Houston Colt .45s/Astros

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Morgan made his major league baseball debut on September 21, 1963.[3] Despite going on to win multiple World Series and MVPs for the Reds, he said his debut for the Colt .45s was the highlight of his career.[4]

Morgan with Houston, c. 1969

Early in his career, Morgan struggled with his swing because he kept his back elbow down too low. Teammate Nellie Fox (also a stocky second baseman) suggested to Morgan that while at the plate he should flap his back arm like a chicken to keep his elbow up.[5] Morgan followed the advice, and his flapping arm became his signature.[3]

Morgan played his first nine major league seasons for the Houston Astros, compiling 72 home runs and 219 stolen bases. He was named an All-Star twice during this period, in 1966 and 1970. On June 25, 1966, Morgan was struck on the kneecap by a line drive (hit by Lee Maye) during batting practice.[6] The broken kneecap forced Morgan out of the lineup for 40 games, during which the Astros went 11–29 (for a .275 winning percentage).[7][8]

Although Morgan played with distinction for Houston, the Astros wanted more power in their lineup. Additionally, manager Harry Walker considered Morgan a troublemaker.[9] As a result, they traded Morgan to the Cincinnati Reds as part of a blockbuster multi-player deal on November 29, 1971, announced at baseball's winter meetings.[3]

Cincinnati Reds

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To this day the aforementioned trade is considered an epoch-making deal for Cincinnati, although at the time many experts felt that the Astros got the better end of the deal.[10] Power-hitting Lee May, All-Star second baseman Tommy Helms, and outfielder/pinch hitter Jimmy Stewart went to the Astros. In addition to Morgan, included in the deal to the Reds were César Gerónimo (who became their regular right fielder and then center fielder), starting pitcher Jack Billingham, veteran infielder Denis Menke, and minor league outfielder Ed Armbrister. Morgan joined leadoff hitter Pete Rose as prolific catalysts at the top of the Reds' lineup. Morgan added home run power, not always displayed with the Astros in the cavernous Astrodome, outstanding speed and excellent defense.[11][12]

Morgan with the Cincinnati Reds in 1977

As part of the Big Red Machine, Morgan made eight consecutive All-Star Game appearances (1972–79) to go along with his 1966 and 1970 appearances with Houston. Morgan, along with teammates Pete Rose, Johnny Bench, Tony Pérez, and Dave Concepción, led the Reds to consecutive championships in the World Series. He drove in Ken Griffey for the winning run in Game 7 of the 1975 World Series. Morgan was also the National League MVP in 1975 and 1976.[13] He was the first second baseman in the history of the National League to win the MVP back to back.[14] In Morgan's NL MVP years he combined for a .324 batting average, 44 home runs, 205 runs batted in, 246 bases on balls, and 127 stolen bases.[15]

Morgan was an extremely capable hitter—especially in clutch situations. While his lifetime average was only .271, he hit between .288 and .327 during his peak years with the Reds. Additionally, he drew many walks, resulting in an excellent .392 on-base percentage. He also hit 268 home runs to go with his 449 doubles and 96 triples, excellent power for a middle infielder of his era, and was considered by some the finest base stealer of his generation (689 steals at greater than 80% success rate). Besides his prowess at the plate and on the bases, Morgan was an exceptional infielder, winning the Gold Glove Award in consecutive years from 1973 to 1977.[13] His short height proved an asset to him, as he had one of baseball's smallest strike zones. "The umpires gave him everything. If he didn't swing at the pitch, it was a ball," recalled Tommy John.[16]

Later career

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Morgan returned to Houston in 1980 as a free agent on a reported contract of $255,000 for one season.[3] He helped the young Astros win the NL West, batting .243 in 141 games while leading the league in walks with 93. The Astros then lost the National League Championship Series to the Philadelphia Phillies. Morgan bristled with team manager Bill Virdon at being taken out in late innings for Rafael Landestoy. Late in the year, Morgan expressed to one reporter his doubt in playing for Virdon again.[17]

Morgan signed onto the San Francisco Giants for the next two seasons.[3] The 1982 season had a bumpy start for the team, but they were neck and neck for second place with the Los Angeles Dodgers (each behind Atlanta) with a three-game set to possibly determine the division race. The Dodgers eliminated San Francisco on the second-to-last day, but Morgan hit a go-ahead three run home run to give the Giants a lead they would not relinquish that saw Los Angeles eliminated in favor of the Braves winning the NL West; Morgan batted .240 and played in just 90 games, his lowest number of games played since 1968. Morgan won the 1982 Willie Mac Award for his spirit and leadership.[18] He batted .289 in 134 games the following season for the Giants.

Morgan at bat for the Giants in 1981.

Morgan was acquired along with Al Holland by the Phillies from the Giants for Mike Krukow, Mark Davis and minor-league outfielder C.L. Penigar on December 14, 1982.[19] He was reunited with former Reds teammates Pete Rose and Tony Pérez. The lineup was soon dubbed the "Wheeze Kids", referring to the considerable age in their starting lineup, where just one starting player was under 30 years old.[20] On his 40th birthday in 1983, Morgan had four hits, including two home runs and a double, at Veterans Stadium.[21]

The Phillies beat the Dodgers in the NLCS to reach the World Series for the second time in four seasons. Morgan got to play in the World Series for the final time, facing off against the Baltimore Orioles. In Game 1, he hit a home run in the sixth inning to tie the game; he became the second oldest player to hit a home run in the World Series (Enos Slaughter was a few months older at the age of 40). He went 5-for-19 in the Series, which included a second home run in Game 5, but the Phillies lost in five games.[22] Morgan finished his career with the Oakland Athletics in 1984, playing 116 games and batting .244. He collected a hit in his final game on September 30, collecting a double in his one at-bat before being taken out of the game.[3][23]

Post-playing career

[edit]

Hall of Fame

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In 1990, Morgan was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame with more than 81% of the vote. He entered together with Jim Palmer, both in their first year of eligibility. Morgan and Palmer were the 25th/26th players in MLB history to be elected in their first year of eligibility.[24]

In 2017, Morgan wrote a letter to the Hall of Fame in which he asked that players who had cheated by using performance-enhancing steroids not be elected into the Hall.[25]

Legacy

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After his career ended, Morgan was inducted into the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame in 1987, and his jersey number 8 was retired. The Reds dedicated a statue for Morgan at Great American Ball Park in 2013.[26]

Joe Morgan's number 8 was retired by the Cincinnati Reds in 1987.

In the New Bill James Historical Baseball Abstract, Bill James named Morgan the best second baseman in baseball history, ahead of #2 Eddie Collins and #3 Rogers Hornsby. He also named Morgan as the "greatest percentages player in baseball history", due to his strong fielding percentage, stolen base percentage, walk-to-strikeout ratio, and walks per plate appearance.[27] The statement was included with the caveat that many players in baseball history could not be included in the formula due to lack of data. In the four decades since Morgan's retirement, only one player (Rickey Henderson) has had as many home runs and stolen bases as Morgan did for a career.[28] Morgan had at least 20 home runs and 50 stolen bases in the same season three times during his career,[29] including twice with at least 60 steals.[30]

In 1999, Morgan ranked Number 60 on The Sporting News' list of the 100 Greatest Baseball Players,[31] and was nominated as a finalist for the Major League Baseball All-Century Team.[32]

Morgan served as a member of the board of the Baseball Assistance Team, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to helping former Major League, Minor League, and Negro league players through financial and medical hardships. In addition, since 1994, he served on the board of directors for the Baseball Hall of Fame, and was vice-chairman from 2000 until his death in 2020.[33]

Broadcasting career

[edit]

Local gigs and college baseball

[edit]

Morgan started his broadcasting career in 1985 for the Cincinnati Reds.[34] On September 11, 1985, Morgan, along with his television broadcasting partner Ken Wilson, was on hand to call Pete Rose's record-breaking 4,192nd career hit. A year later, Morgan started a nine-year stint as an announcer for the San Francisco Giants. Morgan added one more local gig when he joined the Oakland Athletics' broadcasting team for the 1995 season.[35]

In 1986, ESPN hired Morgan to call Monday Night Baseball and College World Series games.[36]

ABC Sports

[edit]

From 1988 to 1989, Morgan served as an announcer for ABC, where he helped announce Monday Night and Thursday Night Baseball games (providing backup for the led announcing crew composed of Al Michaels, Tim McCarver, and Jim Palmer), the 1988 American League Championship Series[37] with Gary Bender and Reggie Jackson, and served as a field reporter for the 1989 World Series along with Gary Thorne (Morgan's regular season partner in 1989). Morgan was on the field at San Francisco's Candlestick Park alongside Hall of Famer Willie Mays (whom Morgan was getting set to interview) the moment the Loma Prieta earthquake hit.[38]

NBC Sports

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From 1994 to 2000, Morgan teamed with Bob Costas and Bob Uecker (until 1997) to call baseball games on NBC (and in association with The Baseball Network from 1994 to 1995).[39][40] During this period, Morgan helped call three World Series (1995, 1997, and 1999) and four All-Star Games (1994, 1996, 1998, and 2000). Morgan also called three American League Championship Series (1996, 1998, and 2000) and three National League Championship Series (1995 alongside Greg Gumbel, 1997, and 1999).[35]

Morgan spent a previous stint (1986–1987) with NBC calling regional Game of the Week telecasts alongside Bob Carpenter.[41] During NBC's coverage of the 1985[42] and 1987 National League Championship Series, Morgan served as a pregame analyst alongside hosts Dick Enberg (in 1985)[43] and Marv Albert (in 1987).[44]

ESPN

[edit]
Morgan in the Baseball Hall of Fame parade in 2011.

Morgan was a member of ESPN's lead baseball broadcast team alongside Jon Miller and Orel Hershiser. Besides teaming with Miller for Sunday Night Baseball (since its inception in 1990) telecasts, Morgan also teamed with Miller for League Championship Series and World Series broadcasts on ESPN Radio.[45][46]

In 1999, Morgan teamed with his then-NBC colleague Bob Costas to call two weekday night telecasts for ESPN. The first was on Wednesday, August 25 with Detroit Tigers playing against the Seattle Mariners. The second was on Tuesday, September 21 with the Atlanta Braves playing against the New York Mets.[47] He won two Sports Emmy Awards for Outstanding Sports Event Analyst in 1998 and 2005.[48]

In 2006, he called the Little League World Series Championship with Brent Musburger and Orel Hershiser on ABC, replacing the recently fired Harold Reynolds.[49] During the 2006 MLB playoffs, the network had Morgan pull double duty by calling the first half of the MetsDodgers playoff game at Shea Stadium before traveling across town to call the YankeesTigers night game at Yankee Stadium.[50]

In 2009, Sports Illustrated's Joe Posnanski spoke about the perceived disparity between Morgan's celebrated playing style and his on-air persona:

"The disconnect between Morgan the player and Morgan the announcer is one that I'm just not sure anyone has figured. Bill James tells a great story about how one time Jon Miller showed Morgan Bill's New Historical Baseball Abstract, which has Morgan ranked as the best second baseman of all time, ahead of Rogers Hornsby. Well, Morgan starts griping that this was ridiculous, that Hornsby hit .358 in his career, and Morgan never hit .358, and so on. And there it was, perfectly aligned—Joe Morgan the announcer arguing against Joe Morgan the player."[51]

In the wake of Morgan taking an official role with the Cincinnati Reds as a "special adviser to baseball operations", it was announced on November 8, 2010, that Morgan would not be returning for the 2011 season as an announcer on ESPN Sunday Night Baseball. His former broadcast partner Jon Miller's contract expired in 2010 and ESPN chose not to renew his contract. Morgan and Miller were replaced by Bobby Valentine and Dan Shulman, respectively (while ESPN retained Orel Hershiser, who joined the Sunday Night Baseball telecasts in 2010).[52]

Other appearances

[edit]

Morgan was also a broadcaster in the MLB 2K video game series from 2K Sports.[53]

It was announced on June 17, 2011, that Morgan would begin a daily, one-hour general-sports-talk radio program on Sports USA Radio Network, beginning on August 22 of that year.[54]

Return to the Reds

[edit]

In April 2010, Morgan returned to the Reds as an advisor to baseball operations, including community outreach for the Reds.[55]

Personal life

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Morgan married Gloria Stewart, his high school girlfriend, on April 3, 1967. They had two children, and divorced in the 1980s. He then married Theresa Behymer in 1990. They had twins in 1991.[3]

In March 1988, while transiting through Los Angeles International Airport, Morgan was violently thrown to the floor, handcuffed, and arrested by Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) detectives who profiled him as a drug courier.[1] He filed and won a civil rights case against the LAPD in 1991,[56] and was awarded $540,000.[57] In 1993, a federal court upheld his claim that his civil rights had been violated.[58]

In 2015, Morgan was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic syndrome, which developed into leukemia. He received a bone marrow transplant from one of his daughters.[59] Morgan died on October 11, 2020, at the age of 77, at his home in Danville, California. He suffered from a non-specified polyneuropathy in the time leading up to his death.[60][61] Behymer-Morgan survives him.

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Joe Leonard Morgan (September 19, 1943 – October 11, 2020) was an American professional baseball who played 22 seasons, primarily with the Houston Astros and , and was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1990 on his first ballot. Born in , and raised in , the 5-foot-7-inch Morgan overcame his slight build to excel through superior plate discipline, base-running speed, and defensive skills, amassing 689 stolen bases, a .327 in his MVP seasons, and five Gold Glove Awards at second base. His defining achievements came with the Reds' "" from 1972 to 1979, where he earned back-to-back National League honors in 1975 and 1976, batting .327 with 67 stolen bases in the former year and .320 with 27 home runs and 60 steals in the latter, while contributing to victories both seasons. A 10-time over his career, which yielded 2,517 hits, 268 home runs, and an .819 percentage, Morgan later transitioned to broadcasting, teaming with for 21 years on ESPN's from 1990 to 2010. He died in , from , a condition.

Early life and education

Childhood, family, and entry into baseball

Joe Leonard Morgan was born on September 19, 1943, in , the oldest of six children born to Leonard Morgan, a worker in the and rubber industry, and Ollie Mae Morgan. The family relocated to , when Morgan was five years old, seeking better economic opportunities in the postwar period. In Oakland, Morgan's father took employment at local shipyards, contributing to the family's stability amid the challenges faced by many African American households migrating from the South. Morgan developed a passion for during his youth in Oakland, initially playing sandlot games before joining organized youth leagues around age 13. He idolized second basemen like and , though he primarily played . At Castlemont High School, Morgan emerged as a standout , batting for average and power while stealing bases effectively, and leading the team to an Oakland city championship. Despite his high school success, scouts overlooked him due to his diminutive frame—standing 5 feet 7 inches and weighing around 150 pounds—which limited scholarship offers from colleges. After graduating from Castlemont in 1962 and briefly attending (also known as Oakland City College), Morgan entered when the expansion Houston Colt .45s signed him as an amateur free agent on November 1, 1962—the pre-draft era allowing teams to sign uncommitted prospects directly. The contract included a modest $3,000 and $500 monthly during the season, reflecting the risks for a lightly scouted player. Morgan began his career in 1963 with the Modesto Colts of the Class C and the of the Class A , where he batted over .300 in both stops, demonstrating the skills that would define his major league tenure.

Professional playing career

Houston Colt .45s / Astros (1963–1971)

Joe Morgan signed with the Colt .45s as an amateur free agent on November 1, 1962. He made his major league debut on September 21, 1963, appearing in eight games that season while batting .240 with five walks. Limited to 10 games in 1964 due to seasoning, Morgan recorded a .189 average. Morgan secured the regular second base role in , playing 157 games and posting a .271 with 14 home runs, 97 walks, and a .373 , finishing second in [National League](/page/National League) Rookie of the Year voting. He earned selections in 1966 (.285 average, 89 walks) and 1970 (.268 average, 42 stolen bases). A broken wrist limited him to 10 games in , but he rebounded in 1969 with 49 stolen bases and 110 walks. Defensively, Morgan's fielding percentage at second base improved steadily, reaching .986 in 1971 with only 12 errors in 830 chances. His 1971 season featured a .256 , 13 home runs, 40 stolen bases, and 88 walks.
YearGamesAVGHRRBISBBBOBP
19638.2400315.367
196410.1890006.302
1965157.27114402097.373
1966122.2855421189.410
1967133.2756422981.378
196810.2500037.444
1969147.236154349110.365
1970144.26885242102.383
1971160.25613564088.351
On November 29, 1971, the Astros traded Morgan, along with Denis Menke, , Ed Armbrister, and , to the for , , and Jimmy Stewart.

Cincinnati Reds (1972–1977)


On November 29, 1971, the acquired Joe Morgan from the Houston Astros in an eight-player trade, receiving Morgan along with infielder Denis Menke, pitchers and Ed Armbrister, and outfielder in exchange for outfielder , second baseman , and utility infielder Jimmy Stewart. This deal bolstered the ' lineup with Morgan's speed, on-base skills, and defense, contributing to the emergence of the "" dynasty. In his debut season of 1972, Morgan led the National League in runs scored (122), walks (115), and (.417), while batting .292 with 58 stolen bases, earning his first selection with the and finishing fourth in MVP voting.
Morgan's tenure from 1972 to 1977 solidified his status as a cornerstone of the Reds' powerhouse offense and defense. He achieved elite production, averaging a .319 percentage above .900 annually, with consistent power (minimum 16 home runs per season) and base-stealing prowess (at least 49 steals each year). Defensively, he won five consecutive Gold Glove Awards from 1973 to 1977 for his exceptional play at second base. His and versatility ignited the lineup alongside stars like and , driving the team's sustained contention.
YearGamesAVGOBPSLGHRRBISBBBR
1972149.292.417.435167358115122
1973157.290.406.493268267111116
1974149.293.427.494226758120107
1975146.327.466.508179467132107
1976141.320.444.5762711160114113
1977153.288.417.478227849117113
In 1975 and 1976, Morgan captured consecutive National League MVP Awards, leading the majors in OPS both years while powering the Reds to World Series victories over the Boston Red Sox (4-3) and New York Yankees (4-0), respectively. His 1975 campaign featured a .327 average, league-leading 132 walks, and Gold Glove defense; in 1976, he added career highs in home runs (27) and RBI (111). Selected to the All-Star Game each year from 1972 to 1977, Morgan's blend of offensive dynamism and fielding excellence was pivotal to the Reds' four National League pennants and two titles during this span.

Later teams (1978–1984)

Morgan remained with the Cincinnati Reds for the 1978 and 1979 seasons, earning All-Star selections in both years despite a decline in performance following his MVP peaks. In 1978, he batted .236 with 13 home runs and 75 RBIs over 132 games, hampered by an abdominal muscle injury that affected his speed and average. His 1979 output included a .250 batting average, 9 home runs, and 32 RBIs in 127 games, with 28 stolen bases. As a after the 1979 season, Morgan signed a one-year contract with the Astros, returning to the organization where he began his career. In 1980, he posted a .243 average, 11 home runs, 49 RBIs, and 24 stolen bases in 141 games, contributing to the Astros' division title but exiting in the NLCS. Morgan joined the San Francisco Giants on February 9, 1981, signing as a and providing veteran leadership during a strike-shortened season where he batted .240 with 8 s in 90 games. In 1982, he experienced a resurgence at age 39, hitting .289 with 14 s, 61 RBIs, and 24 stolen bases in 134 games, earning the and finishing 16th in National League MVP voting. His performance helped the Giants achieve back-to-back winning seasons for the first time since 1970–1971, contending for the NL West title with a 90–72 record; notable contributions included a against the Dodgers that impacted their playoff hopes. Acquired by the Philadelphia Phillies from the Giants along with pitcher ahead of the 1983 season, Morgan batted .230 with 16 home runs and 59 RBIs in 123 games, providing power from the second base position. The Phillies advanced to the , defeating the Dodgers in the NLCS before losing to the Baltimore Orioles in five games. Released by the Phillies after the , Morgan signed with the before the 1984 season, his final year as a player. He batted .244 with 6 home runs and 43 RBIs in 116 games, retiring at age 40 after the season.

Awards, statistics, and Hall of Fame

Major awards and achievements

Joe Morgan won the National League Award in both 1975 and 1976, leading the to consecutive titles while posting elite offensive and defensive numbers, including a .327 , 27 home runs, and 111 runs batted in during the 1976 season. He became the first to capture back-to-back MVP honors since in 1949. Morgan earned five consecutive Gold Glove Awards at second base from 1973 to 1977, recognizing his superior fielding with a career .985 fielding percentage and 6,895 putouts over 22 seasons. He was selected to ten Games, appearing in 1966, 1970, and every year from 1972 to 1979, often starting at second base for the National League. In 1982, at age 38 with the Giants, Morgan received the for his offensive production as a alternative, batting .275 with 19 home runs. He also finished second in National League Rookie of the Year voting in 1965 after debuting with the Houston Colt .45s. Among his statistical achievements, Morgan created the 200/500 club on August 27, 1978, by hitting his 200th career to join the 500 stolen bases milestone first in MLB history, a rare combination of power and speed later achieved only by , , and .

Career statistics and records

Joe Morgan played 22 seasons in from 1963 to 1984, appearing in 2,649 games primarily as a . His career batting line included a .271 , .392 , .427 , and .819 , with 2,517 hits, 268 home runs, 1,133 RBI, and 689 stolen bases in 9,277 at-bats. Defensively, he posted a .982 fielding percentage at second base over 2,527 games, recording 7,511 putouts, 7,346 assists, 273 errors, and participation in 1,405 double plays. | Season | G | AB | H | 2B | 3B | HR | RBI | SB | BB | SO | BA | OBP | SLG | OPS | |--------|---|----|---|----|----|----|-----|----|----|----|----|-----|-----|-----|-----|-----| | Career | 2649 | 9277 | 2517 | 449 | 96 | 268 | 1133 | 689 | 1865 | 1015 | .271 | .392 | .427 | .819 | Morgan's total ranked among the highest for second basemen, with league-leading marks of 67 in 1973 and 60 in 1976. He also led the National League in walks four times: 115 in 1972, 111 in 1973, 132 in 1975, and 114 in 1976. His 100.6 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) placed him fifth all-time among second basemen as of the latest rankings.
PositionGPOAEDPFPct
2B2527751173462731405.982
Upon , Morgan held the major league record for home runs by a with 268, surpassing previous marks for the position. He became the first player in history to reach 200 home runs and 500 stolen bases, achieving the milestone with his 200th homer on August 27, 1978. These accomplishments underscored his blend of power, speed, and plate discipline, setting benchmarks for future middle infielders.

Induction into the Hall of Fame

Joe Morgan was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame on January 9, 1990, in his first year of eligibility, receiving 81.8% of the vote from the (BBWAA). He was selected alongside pitcher , marking the first time since 1979 that two players achieved first-ballot induction. Morgan's election reflected his standout career achievements, including back-to-back National League Awards in 1975 and 1976, 10 selections, and a pivotal role in the ' victories in 1975 and 1976. The induction ceremony took place on August 5, 1990, in , where Morgan delivered an acceptance speech emphasizing his journey from to the majors and crediting key influences like and the Reds organization. In the speech, he highlighted his time in as transformative, stating that playing for the Reds elevated his game and fulfilled dreams beyond initial aspirations of reaching the major leagues. Morgan also acknowledged the significance of first-ballot election, describing it as "unbelievable" in comments to the . Following his remarks, he interacted with Hall of Fame legends like , underscoring the event's communal prestige among immortals. Morgan's plaque in the Hall recognizes his defensive prowess at second base, base-stealing records, and leadership, cementing his legacy as one of the era's most complete players. The induction affirmed his impact on the game, particularly during the "" dynasty, without notable controversy in the voting process.

Broadcasting career

Early and local broadcasting roles

Following his retirement from after the 1984 season with the , Joe Morgan entered broadcasting as a television for the in 1985. His debut in the booth occurred on September 11, 1985, where he partnered with a play-by-play to provide analysis for the team's games, leveraging his firsthand knowledge from leading the Reds' "" dynasty of the 1970s. This local role marked Morgan's initial foray into media, focusing on game telecasts aired in the market. In 1986, Morgan shifted to the San Francisco Giants' broadcast team, serving as a game and analyst for their local television coverage. He continued in this capacity for multiple seasons, offering insights into strategy and player performance during Giants' home and away games broadcast regionally. These early local assignments with the Reds and Giants honed Morgan's on-air style, emphasizing traditional acumen over emerging statistical trends, before his transition to broader national platforms. Morgan later added a stint with the in 1995, contributing to their local broadcasts amid his established national commitments. These team-specific roles underscored his regional ties, particularly in where he had played late in his career, and provided platforms for discussing scouting evaluations and intangible player skills central to his commentary approach.

National networks (ABC and )

Morgan began his national broadcasting career with ABC in 1988, serving as an analyst for and Thursday Night Baseball telecasts. This marked his entry into major network coverage following local roles with the and San Francisco Giants, where he provided color commentary drawing on his Hall of Fame playing experience. In 1994, Morgan joined as part of , a short-lived with ABC that held national MLB broadcast rights, teaming with play-by-play announcer and fellow analyst for regular-season and postseason games. His NBC tenure extended through 2000, encompassing analysis for four All-Star Games in 1994, 1996, 1998, and 2000, as well as three in 1995, 1997, and 1999. Morgan's contributions emphasized strategic insights from his on-field perspective, often highlighting fundamentals like and situational hitting, though his style drew mixed reactions for its occasional verbosity.

ESPN tenure and national prominence

Morgan began his tenure with ESPN in 1990 as the primary color analyst for , partnering with play-by-play announcer in a booth combination that lasted 21 consecutive seasons until 2010. This flagship program, ESPN's premier regular-season telecast, featured Morgan providing in-depth analysis drawn from his playing experience, emphasizing fundamentals, situational strategy, and player intangibles over emerging statistical trends. During his ESPN years, Morgan received two for Outstanding Sports Event Analyst, in 1998 and 2005—the network's inaugural victories in that category—recognizing his articulate breakdowns and credibility as a Hall of Fame player turned commentator. His commentary often highlighted the human elements of the game, such as base-running decisions and defensive shifts, which resonated with viewers and solidified 's coverage as analytically substantive yet accessible. This extended ESPN role elevated Morgan to national prominence beyond his on-field legacy, positioning him as one of baseball's most influential voices in the broadcast era; he routinely engaged in high-profile discussions on rule changes, labor issues, and Hall of Fame criteria, often via platforms, reaching millions weekly during the network's growing dominance in sports media. In 2004, Morgan and Miller extended their contracts through at least 2005, underscoring the duo's value to 's programming strategy. His departure after the 2010 season marked the end of an era, with opting not to renew the pairing amid shifts toward younger analysts.

Return to the Reds and final years

In 2010, after concluding his 21-year tenure as a lead analyst for ESPN's Sunday Night Baseball, Morgan returned to the Cincinnati Reds as a special adviser to baseball operations. His responsibilities in this role focused primarily on community outreach, public relations, and providing occasional input on baseball matters, rather than full-time broadcasting. This position allowed him to remain connected to the organization where he had achieved his greatest playing success during the 1970s Big Red Machine era. Morgan's broadcasting involvement with the Reds in his later career was sporadic and limited. In August 2017, following recovery from health setbacks, he joined the team's television broadcasts on a part-time basis, contributing for segments of home games through the remainder of the season. These appearances marked a return to the booth after years away from regular national duties, emphasizing his enduring ties to the franchise. In his final years, Morgan contended with progressive health challenges, including complications from that impacted his mobility and public engagements. Despite these difficulties, he maintained his advisory role with the Reds until his death on October 11, 2020, at age 77 in . His passing concluded a career that spanned over three decades, highlighted by for outstanding sports personality and a reputation for insightful, player-focused commentary.

Stance on performance-enhancing drugs

Advocacy against PED users in the Hall of Fame

In November 2017, Joe Morgan, then vice chairman of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum's board of directors, sent an via to all (BBWAA) members eligible to vote on Hall of Fame inductees, urging them to reject candidates associated with performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). In the letter, dated November 21, Morgan explicitly targeted players who had failed MLB drug tests, admitted to use, or been identified as users in the 2007 , declaring, "They cheated. Steroid users don't belong here." Morgan framed the issue as a matter of preserving the Hall's integrity, arguing that inducting PED-linked players would undermine the achievements of "clean" players who relied on natural talent and hard work without chemical advantages. He cited conversations with fellow Hall of Famers, noting their warnings that steroid users' induction could lead to boycotts of Cooperstown ceremonies and events, as inductees might refuse to attend or participate if the appeared to endorse . Morgan positioned the letter as a collective plea from Hall members, stating he had never before recalled such unified concern among them. The advocacy aligned with Morgan's prior denial of personal PED use during his 2005 testimony before the U.S. Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, where he affirmed playing a "clean game" throughout his career. His stance emphasized a strict threshold for eligibility, rejecting nuanced arguments about unproven allegations or the era's systemic issues, and called for voters to prioritize the Hall as a for ethical excellence over statistical dominance potentially inflated by banned substances.

Broader criticisms of steroid era impacts

Morgan contended that the steroid era, roughly spanning the mid-1990s to the mid-2000s, inflicted lasting damage on 's historical record book by enabling players to achieve unprecedented power statistics through chemical means rather than natural talent and training. He highlighted how this period saw totals and percentages soar to artificial heights, exemplified by the 1998 Mark McGwire-Sammy Sosa chase that surpassed Roger Maris's single-season record of 61, which Morgan viewed as a "steroidal " that eroded the authenticity of achievements. In his view, such inflation not only devalued legitimate performances from prior eras but also complicated statistical analysis and comparisons, as clean players' accomplishments were overshadowed by those enhanced by PEDs. Beyond records, Morgan argued that the era compromised the game's competitive integrity and public trust, fostering a culture where became normalized amid lax by MLB prior to the 2005 testing policy. He emphasized that widespread PED use created an uneven playing field, pressuring even non-users to consider enhancement to compete, which he described as "out of control" and embarrassing for the sport. This, Morgan believed, diminished fan appreciation for the nuances of —such as speed, defense, and on-base skills that defined his own career—shifting focus to spectacle-driven power displays that prioritized entertainment over purity. Morgan further criticized the long-term cultural repercussions, warning that overlooking PED use sent a message to young players and fans that success could be chemically engineered, potentially perpetuating ethical lapses in the sport. He positioned this as a of baseball's traditions, where Hall of Famers like himself represented drug-free excellence, and urged preservation of the game's moral standards to safeguard its legacy for future generations.

Views on baseball analytics and traditional scouting

Skepticism toward sabermetrics

Joe Morgan expressed strong skepticism toward throughout his broadcasting career, particularly during his tenure as an analyst on ESPN's from 1990 to 2010, where he prioritized traditional evaluation methods over data-driven . He dismissed advanced statistical approaches as detached from the realities of playing the game, arguing that they overlooked essential elements like player instinct and situational execution. For instance, Morgan criticized the emphasis on (OBP) popularized by sabermetricians, insisting instead on metrics like runs batted in (RBI) to gauge hitters' value, claiming "Run production is how you measure hitters." Morgan's opposition extended to prominent sabermetric works and teams employing them, such as the Oakland Athletics under Billy Beane. He refused to read Michael Lewis's 2003 book Moneyball, which chronicled the A's analytics-focused strategy, erroneously believing it was authored by Beane himself, and declared, "That moneyball theory is overrated... No one has ever won with it. PLAYERS win games. Not theories." In broadcasts and public statements, he derided sabermetrics proponents as "a bunch of geeks trying to play video games," reflecting his view that statistical models could not replicate the nuanced judgment of experienced players and scouts. This stance drew sharp rebukes from analytics advocates, who noted that advanced metrics like wins above replacement (WAR) actually positioned Morgan as one of the top second basemen in history, with a career fWAR of 98.8, yet he remained unmoved, prioritizing observable performance over algorithmic outputs. His resistance inspired the 2005 launch of the blog Fire Joe Morgan, which systematically critiqued his on-air dismissals of until its closure in 2008, highlighting instances where Morgan questioned trades or roster decisions based on , such as the 2005 acquisition of outfielder by the A's or the Boston Red Sox's use of specialized catcher for platoon advantages. In direct confrontations, Morgan labeled advocates of statistical analysis "jokes," rejecting concepts like the measurable impact of catchers on base stealing success rates as rather than empirical observation. Morgan maintained that true acumen derived from "feel for the game," a perspective rooted in his own championship experience with the 1975–1976 , rather than what he saw as abstract theorizing.

Defense of scouting and intangible skills

Morgan maintained that intangible qualities, such as leadership, hustle, and situational awareness, were essential drivers of baseball success, often unquantifiable by statistics alone. He asserted that dismissing these factors revealed a fundamental misunderstanding of the sport, pointing to Derek Jeter as an exemplar whose intangibles propelled championships. In a 2005 broadcast discussion, Morgan highlighted how Jeter's influence extended beyond measurable outputs, exemplifying the "little things" like baserunning savvy and defensive reliability that scouts traditionally prioritize. He criticized the "computer age" for neglecting intangibles, arguing that data-driven approaches failed to account for mental makeup and performance under pressure. Morgan's advocacy aligned with traditional scouting practices, which evaluate prospects' , adaptability, and "tools" like arm strength and speed through firsthand observation rather than aggregate stats. Scouts, in his view, provided irreplaceable insights into a player's potential to elevate teammates, contrasting with sabermetric models that he saw as reductive. This perspective informed Morgan's broader resistance to analytics-heavy evaluation, as he believed overemphasis on metrics like ignored the holistic assessment required for building winning teams. During his ESPN tenure, he frequently referenced reports and player anecdotes to underscore intangibles' role in outcomes, such as the ' 1970s dynasty, where camaraderie and execution trumped raw numbers. Morgan's stance reflected a commitment to causal elements of play—visible effort and decision-making—that empirical observation, not algorithms, best revealed.

Legacy

Influence on playing style and the second base position

Joe Morgan exemplified a multifaceted playing style at second base, blending elite defense with offensive prowess characterized by plate discipline, speed, and unexpected power for his 5-foot-7 stature. He secured five consecutive Gold Glove Awards from 1973 to 1977, showcasing exceptional range, quick hands, and double-play execution, particularly in tandem with shortstop during the ' dynasty. Offensively, Morgan posted a career .392 , drawing 1,865 walks while stealing 689 bases, and hit 268 home runs—uncommon for second basemen of his era—who typically prioritized contact over power. Morgan's approach elevated the second base position beyond traditional roles focused on bunting, contact hitting, or pure fielding, proving that incumbents could deliver leadoff-like production from the middle infield. In peak seasons with the Reds, such as 1975 (.327 batting average, .466 OBP, 67 stolen bases) and 1976 (27 home runs, 60 stolen bases, 1.020 OPS), he led the National League in on-base percentage, walks, and runs scored multiple times, amassing over 11 WAR in 1975 alone. This versatility—averaging 22 homers and 60 steals per 162 games during his prime—challenged positional norms, influencing teams like the "Big Red Machine" to emphasize smart aggression, high-OBP hitters, and base-stealing threats at second base. His impact reshaped expectations for , establishing a template for athletic, all-around performers capable of 100+ careers (Morgan finished at 100.5), akin to premium outfielders. Analysts credit him with revolutionizing the position through his rare fusion of power, speed, and defense, inspiring subsequent generations to prioritize multifaceted contributions over specialization. Morgan's style opened pathways for dynamic infielders, argued by contemporaries and metrics as the benchmark for the greatest of the last century.

Contributions to broadcasting and baseball commentary

Morgan began his broadcasting career in 1985 as a for the on local television and radio, leveraging his recent retirement from playing to provide insider perspectives on the game. His early work included calling Pete Rose's record-breaking 4,192nd hit on September 11, 1985, alongside partner Ken Wilson, marking a transition from on-field excellence to analytical roles. Over time, Morgan expanded to national platforms, serving as a commentator for ABC, , , the San Francisco Giants, and , where his firsthand experience as a Hall of Fame informed breakdowns of strategy, hitting mechanics, and defensive play. From 1990 to 2010, Morgan anchored ESPN's as the lead color analyst, partnering with play-by-play announcer for all 21 seasons of the program, which became a flagship national telecast. In this role, he was the first African-American baseball game analyst in prime-time national television, delivering commentary that emphasized player fundamentals, situational awareness, and historical context drawn from his 22-year MLB career. Morgan's analysis often highlighted the nuances of small-ball tactics and base-running intelligence—skills central to his own success with the ""—contributing to the broadcast's reputation for depth amid ESPN's growing national audience. Morgan's broadcasting excellence earned him two for Outstanding Sports Personality - Event Analyst, in 1998 and 2005, representing ESPN's inaugural wins in that category and recognizing his ability to blend statistical recall with qualitative insights on player performance. His tenure elevated commentary by bridging eras, offering critiques rooted in pre-free-agency while adapting to modern coverage, though he occasionally clashed with network preferences for stylistic changes. Overall, Morgan's work influenced subsequent analysts by demonstrating how elite playing credentials could translate to authoritative, player-centric narration, sustaining viewer engagement through substantive rather than sensationalist delivery.

Posthumous assessments and debates

Following Joe Morgan's death on October 11, 2020, from , assessments of his legacy emphasized his transformative impact as a player, particularly his role in the ' dynasty, where he won back-to-back National League MVP awards in 1975 and 1976 while leading the league in () those years. Tributes from MLB figures and analysts, including Joey Votto's reflection on "Joe Morgan Day" observed by the Reds on August 8, 2021, highlighted his enduring influence on second base play, blending speed, power, and defense to post career totals that rank him among the top at his position. These evaluations often noted the irony that advanced metrics, which Morgan resisted, retrospectively validated his dominance, with his 100.5 placing him 19th all-time among position players per Baseball-Reference data. Debates intensified around Morgan's broadcasting tenure and resistance to , with critics arguing his dismissal of data-driven analysis hindered objective commentary despite its proven efficacy in player evaluation and . Posthumous reflections, such as those in , pointed out that while elevated Morgan's statistical legacy—evidenced by his elite OPS+ of 132 and 689 stolen bases—his public , including statements prioritizing "intangibles" over metrics, clashed with baseball's shift toward quantifiable insights that correlated with winning, as seen in the -heavy success of teams like the 2020 Dodgers. Supporters countered that Morgan's emphasis on and holistic skills anticipated ongoing discussions about over-reliance on data, which some analysts argue neglects contextual factors like performance, though empirical studies show limited evidence for such intangibles beyond base rates. Morgan's staunch opposition to inducting performance-enhancing drug (PED) users into the Hall of Fame, articulated in his 2017 letter urging voters to reject those implicated by tests, admissions, or the , continued to resonate in post-2020 voting debates. As candidates like and fell short in 2022 BBWAA balloting—receiving 66% and 65.2% despite Hall thresholds of 75%—commentators cited Morgan's stance as emblematic of traditionalist resistance, arguing it preserved the Hall's integrity amid evidence that PEDs inflated stats for some era players, though critics noted given untested figures from earlier eras. This position drew mixed posthumous views: praised for upholding causal links between PEDs and unnatural performance gains, as per MLB's suspension data showing over 100 players disciplined from 2005–2010, yet debated for potentially excluding meritorious careers without direct proof of impact on specific achievements.

Personal life

Family, residences, and philanthropy

Morgan was born on September 19, 1943, in , to parents and Ollie Morgan as the eldest of their six children; his family relocated to , when he was five years old. He married Gloria Stewart in 1967, with whom he had two daughters, Lisa and Angela; the couple later divorced. In 1990, Morgan married Theresa Behmyer, a that initially faced resistance from both families due to racial differences; they had twin daughters, Kelly and Ashley, born on February 9, 1991. Morgan primarily resided in Oakland, California, throughout much of his adult life, where he owned a 5,008-square-foot mansion built in 1980 by architect Aaron Green, featuring four bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms; the property was listed for sale in 2016 at $2.8 million to $2.9 million. Morgan served as a board member emeritus of the , which provides scholarships and support programs for minority youth pursuing higher education, reflecting his commitment to opportunities in and beyond that he experienced as a Black athlete from Oakland. A scholarship fund in his name, administered by the Summit Bank Foundation, awards four-year aid to students from his alma mater, Castlemont High School in Oakland, who have overcome adversity.

Health issues and death

Morgan experienced several health challenges in his later years, including knee surgery that limited his mobility. He underwent a bone-marrow transplant in 2016 to address an unspecified blood disorder. These issues were compounded by a progressive nerve condition known as , which affects multiple peripheral nerves and can lead to weakness, numbness, and pain. Polyneuropathy, the primary affliction cited in reports of his declining health, is a form of involving damage to nerves outside the brain and , often resulting from underlying causes such as , infections, or toxic exposures, though Morgan's specific was described as non-specified. Complications from this condition progressively worsened, contributing to his overall frailty. Morgan died on October 11, 2020, at his home in , at the age of 77, with the immediate cause attributed to complications of , as confirmed by family spokesman James Davis. His family noted in a statement that the nerve disorder had been a significant factor in his final years.

References

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