Mickey Stanley is a former professional baseball player who had a distinguished career in Major League Baseball (MLB), primarily with the Detroit Tigers. Known for his exceptional defensive skills, Stanley was a versatile player who could perform at multiple positions, but he spent most of his career as an outfielder.

Stanley made his MLB debut with the Tigers in 1964 and quickly established himself as a reliable player. He was a key part of the Tigers' lineup throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s, contributing to the team's success with his consistent performances.

One of Stanley's most notable achievements came in 1968 when he was part of the Tigers team that won the World Series. In a surprising move, Stanley was shifted from his usual outfield position to shortstop for the World Series, despite having never played the position in the major leagues. This decision by manager Mayo Smith was a testament to Stanley's versatility and defensive prowess. Stanley performed admirably in his new role, helping the Tigers to a seven-game victory over the St. Louis Cardinals.

Over the course of his career, Stanley won four Gold Glove Awards, an honor given to the best defensive player at each position. He was recognized for his outstanding fielding abilities and was considered one of the best defensive outfielders of his era. Stanley's speed and agility, combined with his strong throwing arm, made him a formidable presence in the outfield.

Stanley was also a capable hitter, with a career batting average of .248. He had a knack for getting on base and was a consistent contributor to the Tigers' offense. His best offensive season came in 1968 when he hit .259 with 11 home runs and 54 runs batted in.

Stanley retired from professional baseball in 1978, ending his career with the same team with which he started. Over his 15-year career, Stanley played in over 1,500 games and amassed more than 1,100 hits. His contributions to the Tigers and the sport of baseball were recognized in 1983 when he was inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame.

In summary, Mickey Stanley was a highly respected player in Major League Baseball, known for his defensive skills and versatility. His career was marked by consistent performances, a World Series victory, and multiple Gold Glove Awards. Stanley's contributions to the Detroit Tigers and the sport of baseball have ensured his place in the annals of baseball history.

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