Howe has recorded a walk 275 times while striking out on 287 attempts. His on-base percentage comes in at .329 and he holds a lifetime OPS of .363. He has accumulated 268 runs and racked up 293 RBIs. He has gone yard 43 times, as well as 996 total bases and a .034 slugging %. Over the course of the 2,626 at-bats in his career, Howe has accumulated a batting average of .260 with 682 hits.
Art Howe
Art Howe is a name familiar to many baseball enthusiasts, and for good reason. As both a player and a manager, Howe has left a lasting impact on Major League Baseball (MLB). While his managerial stints often overshadow his playing days, his career as an MLB baseball hitter deserves just as much recognition.
Early Life and Entry into Baseball
Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on December 15, 1946, Arthur Henry Howe Jr. grew up with a love for baseball. He attended Shaler Area High School, where he played various sports, but baseball was his true passion. After high school, Howe went on to study at the University of Wyoming. It was during his time here that his baseball skills caught the attention of scouts.
Howe’s journey into professional baseball wasn’t straightforward. He initially signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1971 as an amateur free agent. However, his time with the Pirates was short-lived, and he didn’t make it to the major leagues with them. Instead, he found his breakthrough with the Houston Astros.
Art Howe’s MLB Career
Houston Astros
Howe made his MLB debut with the Houston Astros on April 6, 1974. He quickly established himself as a reliable infielder, showcasing versatility by playing multiple positions, including second base, third base, and shortstop. His time with the Astros marked the beginning of a promising career.
During his tenure with the Astros, Howe became known for his consistent hitting and defensive skills. He maintained a steady batting average and became a key player for the team. His ability to adapt to different infield positions made him invaluable to the Astros.
Pittsburgh Pirates
In 1985, Howe returned to his roots, joining the Pittsburgh Pirates. Although his stint with the Pirates was brief, it allowed him to play in front of his hometown fans. His experience and leadership were assets to the team during his time there.
St. Louis Cardinals
In the latter part of his playing career, Howe joined the St. Louis Cardinals. Although his time with the Cardinals was short, he continued to contribute as a reliable infielder. His professionalism and dedication left a positive impression on teammates and coaches alike.
Art Howe’s Batting Prowess
Throughout his playing career, Art Howe was known for his solid hitting. While he may not have been a power hitter, his consistency at the plate was commendable. Howe had a career batting average of .260, amassing over 600 hits in his MLB career. His ability to make contact and drive in runs made him a valuable asset to any lineup.
Memorable Moments
One of Howe’s most memorable seasons came in 1981 when he had a standout year with the Houston Astros. That season, he achieved a career-high batting average of .296 and contributed significantly to the team’s success. His performance earned him recognition as one of the most reliable hitters in the league.
Transition to Coaching and Management
After retiring as a player in 1985, Art Howe seamlessly transitioned into coaching and management. His deep understanding of the game and leadership qualities made him a natural fit for these roles.
Coaching Career
Howe began his coaching career with the Texas Rangers, serving as a hitting coach. His knowledge of the game and ability to connect with players made him an effective coach. He later joined the Houston Astros as a coach, further solidifying his reputation in the baseball community.
Managerial Success
Art Howe’s managerial career began in 1989 when he was appointed the manager of the Houston Astros. Under his leadership, the Astros experienced several successful seasons. Howe’s calm demeanor and strategic approach to the game earned him respect from players and peers alike.
His most notable managerial stint came with the Oakland Athletics from 1996 to 2002. During this time, Howe led the Athletics to multiple playoff appearances and became known for his ability to develop young talent. His tenure with the Athletics was famously depicted in the book and film “Moneyball,” which highlighted the team’s innovative approach to player evaluation and strategy.
Legacy and Impact
Art Howe’s impact on baseball extends beyond his statistics and accolades. His dedication, work ethic, and love for the game have left a lasting legacy in the MLB. Whether as a player, coach, or manager, Howe’s contributions have been invaluable to the teams he was part of.
Recognition and Honors
While Howe may not have been inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, his career is celebrated by fans and colleagues alike. His influence on the game is evident in the success of the players he coached and managed, many of whom have gone on to have successful careers of their own.
Art Howe Today
In recent years, Art Howe has stepped away from the limelight but continues to be involved in baseball in various capacities. He occasionally offers insights and analysis on the game, sharing his wealth of knowledge with fans and aspiring players. His passion for baseball remains undiminished, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Conclusion
Art Howe’s career as an MLB baseball hitter and his subsequent roles in coaching and management reflect a lifelong commitment to the sport. From his early days as a player to his influential managerial career, Howe’s impact on baseball is undeniable. His story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and love for the game. As fans and players look back on his career, Art Howe’s contributions to MLB will always be remembered and celebrated.