After the canceled games and postponed start of the 2022 season, it’s difficult not to feel nostalgic for simpler times. Among the many great moments and accomplishments over the years, the sound of a perfect hit is undoubtedly something that every fan enjoys hearing, followed by a sense of awe and wonder as the ball sails through the air.

Whenever we’re looking to back our favorite team, it’s always handy to have a list of the very best betting sites available, carefully curated and rated based on the quality of service they provide. Depending on our own preferences, this can include sites that offer bet builders and bet editing options, allowing us to switch things around. Truly great hitters have aided many fans with their winning bets over the years, although to narrow things down, we’re only going to focus on the best who represented the Baltimore franchise since 1954.

Eddie Murray

When he won the Rookie of the Year award in 1977, during an excellent MLB debut season with the Orioles, it was immediately clear there was something special about Eddie Murray. This guy was all about consistency and while he rarely topped the overall rankings, Murray was always within the top five during his illustrious career, which included reaching the World Series twice and winning the big prize once in 1983.

The numbers underline just how dependable Murray was at the plate, between 1977 and 1988, then for one last hurrah with the O’s in 1996 and 1997. Batting in Baltimore with great distinction, Murry recorded 1,084 runs, 2,080 hits, 363 doubles, 343 home runs, 1,224 RBIs, and 884 walks. It’s no wonder there’s a statue of this Hall of Fame star outside Oriole Park.  

Frank Robinson

Is there any better way to prove someone wrong than make them eat their words? That’s precisely what Frank Robinson did in 1966 when he arrived at the Baltimore Orioles, released by the Cincinnati Reds. Their owner Bill DeWitt had little regard for Robinson, claiming the hitter was an “old 30” and well past his prime.

Well, in that fabled first year with the Orioles, Robinson went on to win the AL triple crown, topping the league with his .316 average, career-high 49 home runs, and 122 RBIs. Furthermore, Robinson was instrumental in the Baltimore franchise winning the 1966 World Series. MVP and WS MVP in 1966, Robinson was also voted World Series MVP in 1970 when the Orioles won the championship again.

Boog Powell

“If Boog Powell held out his right arm, he’d be a railroad crossing,” sportscaster Joe Garagiola once enthused, trying to describe the physical presence of this giant of baseball. Although his numbers fluctuated, actually registered his career-best in 1969 before winning the AL MVP award with less in 1970.

Interestingly, when there were slumps in form, they usually coincided with injuries, although the unbreakable spirit was always recognized, twice winning the AL Comeback Player of the Year award. That level of determination ranks Powell amongst the all-time Orioles batting leaders; registering 796 runs, 1,574 hits, 303 home runs, 1,063 RBIs, and 889 walks.

Cal Ripken Jr.

Regardless of being more widely famed for his ironman accomplishments, along with stellar work at shortstop, Cal Ripken Jr. was also steady with the bat in his hands. Playing the entirety of his career with the Baltimore Orioles, along with being an All-Star 19 times, Ripken also won the Silver Slugger Award 8 times, underlining his capabilities at the plate.

Due to his longevity, including the remarkable feat of playing 2,632 straight games, Ripken ranks highest for all-time Orioles batting leaders in several metrics, establishing records that are never likely to be beaten. These include 1,647 runs, 3,184 hits, 603 doubles, 431 home runs, 1,695 RBIs, plus 1,129 walks. 

Brooks Robinson

Nicknamed “The Human Vacuum Cleaner” or “Mr. Hoover” by adoring fans, Brooks Robinson is still regarded as the greatest defensive third baseman in MLB history. Not long after the franchise set roots in Baltimore, during a phenomenal career lasting from 1955 to 1977, he also attained legendary status with the Orioles.

Such is the stature of Robinson in baseball and Baltimore, this legendary player has two statues honoring his time with the Orioles. He will always be remembered for winning 15 consecutive Golden Gloves, yet this guy was also immense with the bat in his hands. During his illustrious career with the O’s, Robinson achieved 1,232 runs, 2,848 hits, 482 doubles, 68 triples, 268 home runs, 1,357 RBIs, 860 walks; plus, the enduring love of an entire city.