Dickie Thon was a professional baseball player who played primarily as a shortstop and center fielder. He began his career in the minor leagues in 1975 and made his major league debut with the California Angels in 1979. Thon quickly established himself as a talented player, earning a reputation for his strong arm and defensive skills.
In 1982, Thon was traded to the Houston Astros, where he had the best season of his career. He hit .286 with 20 home runs and 79 RBIs, and was named to the National League All-Star team. Thon's success continued in 1983, when he hit .286 with 13 home runs and 61 RBIs, and was again named to the All-Star team.
However, Thon's career took a dramatic turn in 1984 when he was hit in the head by a pitch from New York Mets pitcher Mike Torrez. Thon suffered a fractured skull and was left with vision problems that affected his ability to play baseball. He missed the entire 1984 season and struggled to regain his form in the years that followed.
Thon was traded to the San Diego Padres in 1989, where he played for two seasons before being released. He then signed with the Philadelphia Phillies, where he played for one season before retiring in 1993.
Despite the setback he suffered in 1984, Thon is remembered as a talented player who had a significant impact on the game of baseball. He finished his career with a .264 batting average, 100 home runs, and 512 RBIs. He was also known for his speed on the basepaths, stealing 98 bases over the course of his career.
Thon's legacy extends beyond his statistics, however. He was a respected player who was known for his work ethic and dedication to the game. He was also a role model for young players, and his perseverance in the face of adversity inspired many.
In recognition of his contributions to the game, Thon was inducted into the Houston Astros Hall of Fame in 2015. He remains a beloved figure among baseball fans, and his career serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination that are required to succeed in any field.
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