MLB’s One-Season Wonders: Matt Nokes and 1987
Catchers seem to be more of a commonality in terms of one-season wonders. They get injured a lot more and their careers tend to generally be shorter. Detroit’s Matt Nokes falls into this category as a slugger when healthy. Sadly, only his 1987 season was the one where he was able to put it on display.
Before 1987
Nobody really thought much of Nokes at first. The San Francisco Giants drafted him in the 20th round, 503rd overall. However, Nokes shot through the minors, primarily with his bat. Before he knew it, he broke into the Major League level in 1985 with Detroit.
1987
Upon the Tigers losing Lance Parrish to the Phillies in free agency, the catching position was Nokes’ to take. He made a statement instantaneously, promptly crushing the baseball.
Nokes slashed a remarkable .289/.345/.536 with 32 home runs and 87 runs batted in. His OPS+ sat at an impressive 133. He helped the ’87 Tigers to the ALCS but lost to the eventual champion Minnesota Twins.
However, this impressive season earned Nokes Rookie of the Year honors and MVP votes as well as an All-Star appearance. He offensively was the best catcher in the American League which also led him to win a Silver Slugger.
Unfortunately, he couldn’t keep up this pace.
After 1987
Following his illustrious year, Nokes kept as the starting catcher for the Tigers, yet his production sank. This became a trend for the following seasons. Never again did he hit above .280, hit 30 or more home runs, or have an OPS+ anywhere within the range of 130. Nokes also never was an All-Star again.
He played a bit for the Yankees where he had a few solid seasons. Sadly, slowing production and injuries forced him into early retirement in 1995 as a 31-year-old. From 1988-95 he slashed .247/.302/.432 with a combined WAR of 6.6. In 1987, his WAR alone that year was 3.4.
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