Step up to the plate and test your knowledge of the powerhouse hitters who dominated Major League Baseball during the 1970s in this trivia-packed episode! From legendary MVPs to record-breaking sluggers, we dive into the stories, stats, and unforgettable moments that defined a golden age of baseball offense.

Can you name the National League MVP from 1970? How about the player who crushed the most home runs of the decade? And do you know who led the league in RBIs throughout those iconic years? With questions covering everything from Hank Aaron’s historic record-breaking homer to who was known for their "tape-measure" shots, this quiz is sure to challenge even the most die-hard fans.

We’ll also reveal the answers and share interesting tidbits about each player, giving you a deeper appreciation for these feared sluggers who left pitchers trembling throughout the decade. Tune in for a nostalgic trip through baseball history and see if you can knock it out of the park with your knowledge of 1970s MLB legends!

Every MLB fan should visit baseballclassics.com/diamondview to experience real-time insights, exclusive stats, and interactive tools that bring the excitement of the game to life like never before!

Every MLB fan should visit baseballclassics.com/diamondview to experience real-time insights, exclusive stats, and interactive tools that bring the excitement of the game to life like never before!

In this compelling episode, we delve deep into the case for Dick Allen’s long-overdue induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame. A seven-time All-Star, 1964 Rookie of the Year, and 1972 American League MVP, Allen wasn’t just a great player; he was one of the most dominant hitters of his era. His .292 career batting average, 351 home runs, and an eye-popping 156 OPS+—placing him ahead of legendary Hall of Famers like Willie Stargell and Harmon Killebrew—underscore his offensive brilliance during one of baseball’s most challenging periods for hitters.

We’ll explore how Allen thrived in the pitcher-dominated era of the 1960s and 70s, often referred to as the “Second Deadball Era,” where raised mounds, expansive strike zones, and pitcher-friendly ballparks stifled offense. Yet, Allen stood out as a powerhouse, twice leading the league in home runs, four times in OPS, and dominating during his MVP season in 1972, where his .420 OBP and 1.023 OPS were unrivaled.

But Allen’s story goes beyond the numbers. This episode examines his journey through the racial tensions of his time, enduring hostility from fans and even teammates while maintaining his composure and performing at an elite level. His story is one of resilience and trailblazing, setting the stage for greater inclusivity in baseball.

We’ll compare Allen’s performance to Hall of Famers like Ron Santo and Orlando Cepeda, demonstrating how his offensive contributions surpassed many who have already been enshrined in Cooperstown. We’ll also highlight the biases of his era, from racial discrimination to the challenges he faced playing in pitcher-friendly parks like Connie Mack Stadium. Despite these obstacles, Allen’s impact on the game was profound.

Listeners will come away with a deeper appreciation for Dick Allen’s contributions to baseball and a clearer understanding of why he belongs in the Hall of Fame. It’s not just about his stats—it’s about his influence, his perseverance, and the lasting legacy he left on the game. Tune in to hear why Dick Allen deserves to stand among the immortals of baseball history.

Greatest Pitchers by Decade – Baseball Classics DiamondCast

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Join us as we take a fascinating journey through Major League Baseball history, spotlighting the most dominant pitchers of each decade from 1901 through 2019. This Baseball Classics podcast dives into the legends who redefined pitching, including iconic names like Christy Mathewson, Walter Johnson, Sandy Koufax, Greg Maddux, and Clayton Kershaw.

In this episode, we uncover:

• The evolution of pitching dominance and criteria for "Best Pitcher of the Decade."
• Key stats that defined these players' excellence, including wins, ERA, strikeouts, and shutouts.
• Legendary moments, from Walter Johnson’s overpowering fastball to Sandy Koufax’s masterful curveball.
• Discover which pitchers were the most dominant across all of these MLB eras.
• Honorable mentions for each decade, showcasing the depth of talent across MLB history.
• Find out what was the one thing they all had in common to master each decade!

If you're a baseball history enthusiast or curious about the art of pitching, this episode is packed with insights and stories that celebrate the greatness of the mound masters who shaped the game. Get ready to relive the golden eras of baseball through the eyes of its greatest pitchers!