Pro Baseball Career
In 1974, Washington was tapped by Oakland owner Charlie Finley to become the A's "Designated Runner." Despite having no professional baseball experience, and having last played baseball in high school, Washington was a member of the Athletics 1974 World Series championship team. His major league debut was on April 4, 1974 against the Texas Rangers.
Appearing as a pinch-runner for Joe Rudi in game two of the 1974 World Series, Washington was picked off first base in a crucial ninth-inning situation by Dodgers' reliever Mike Marshall.
Washington played in 105 major league games without batting, pitching, or fielding, playing exclusively as a pinch runner. He had 31 stolen bases in 48 attempts and scored 33 runs during his short career. He was released one month into the 1975 season. Washington is one of only seven players to have more game appearances than plate appearances.
Washington's 1975 Topps baseball card is the only baseball card ever released that uses the "pinch runner" position label.
Read more about this topic: Herb Washington
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