Paul Molitor 1987 MVP Season
The year 'The Ignitor' roared, leading Milwaukee with a .353 batting average and 114 RBIs, finishing second in MVP voting.
Playing primarily at third base for the Brewers, Molitor orchestrated a historic offensive surge that culminated in him finishing second in the American League Most Valuable Player (MVP) voting to George Bell of the Toronto Blue Jays. This season is not just a personal triumph but a defining chapter for the franchise in Milwaukee, showcasing the team's ability to produce elite talent years after its early days, and well after the Brewers' 1982 World Series appearance.
- Player
- Paul Molitor
- Team
- Milwaukee Brewers
- Award
- AL MVP Runner-Up
- RBI
- 114
Lore & Background
The atmosphere at County Stadium that summer was electric, fueled by Molitor's daily contributions. Fans watched in awe as he raked for hits with an uncanny ability to find gaps in the defense and run them out for extra bases. His leadership transformed a young Brewers roster into a competitive force that finished third in the AL East, behind the Detroit Tigers and Toronto Blue Jays.
In Their Own Story
The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across County Stadium as Paul Molitor stepped into the batter's box, the familiar crack of his bat echoing through the stands. With two outs and runners in scoring position, he didn't need to swing for the fences; a simple line drive down the left-field line was enough to silence the crowd and ignite the Brewers' dugout. In that moment, the 'Moose' wasn't just playing a game; he was etching his name into the history books of Milwaukee.
Reader's Guide
He consistently delivered hits in critical situations, often turning potential double plays into scoring opportunities with his quick bat-to-ball speed. Key moments included his ability to maintain a high batting average while drawing walks and stealing bases, creating a complete offensive profile that left managers scrambling for answers. The emotional atmosphere in Milwaukee was one of pride and disbelief as fans witnessed a local hero dominate the league. The season culminated in Molitor's MVP victory, a testament to his all-around excellence. Every game felt like a showcase of his talent, with the Brewers' success hinging on his ability to get on base and manufacture runs.
Did You Know?
- Molitor was not the first Milwaukee Brewer to win the American League MVP award; Robin Yount won the award in 1982.
- He played primarily at third base that season but also saw significant time at second base.
- The Brewers reached the World Series in 1982, contrary to the earlier claim that they never did.
Frequently Asked Questions
What award did Paul Molitor win in 1987?
In 1987, Paul Molitor secured the American League Most Valuable Player award while representing the Milwaukee Brewers. This honor recognized his dominant performance throughout the regular season.
How many RBIs did he record during that campaign?
Paul Molitor drove in 96 runs while leading the Brewers to a batting average record. His offensive production was central to the team's major offensive push that year.
What position did Molitor play for Milwaukee then?
Molitor anchored the lineup mostly at third base for Milwaukee during his MVP season. His defensive and offensive contributions were vital to the roster's structure.
Why is this season significant for Brewers history?
This season marks a key milestone in the team's initial seasons in Wisconsin. It demonstrated that the club could cultivate star players regardless of playoff outcomes.
Did the team win a championship that year?
No, the franchise did not reach the World Series despite Molitor's individual success. His performance is still celebrated as a major milestone for the club.