Don Money: A Phillies Retrospective and Fan Q&A

Yes, Don Money was indeed a Philadelphia Phillie, playing third base for the team from 1968 to 1972. Though he later achieved greater fame and success with the Milwaukee Brewers, his formative years in the major leagues were spent donning the Phillies’ pinstripes. This article explores his time in Philadelphia and answers frequently asked questions from fans eager to learn more about this often-overlooked chapter in his career.

Money in Philadelphia: The Early Years

Entering the Big Leagues

Don Money’s journey to the Phillies began when he was signed as an amateur free agent in 1965. He quickly ascended through the Phillies’ farm system, showcasing his talent and earning a spot on the major league roster. At the time, expectations were high, and Money was viewed as a key piece in the Phillies’ future plans.

Early Struggles and Promise

While Money showed flashes of brilliance early in his Phillies tenure, he faced challenges in establishing himself as a consistent offensive force. He spent his first few seasons primarily as a utility player, filling in at various positions when needed. This lack of a permanent role arguably hindered his development and prevented him from truly showcasing his full potential. Despite these challenges, his defensive prowess at third base was evident, and he displayed glimpses of the offensive power that would later define his career.

The 1972 Season: A Turning Point

1972 proved to be a pivotal year for Money in Philadelphia, as he finally secured the starting role at third base. He posted career highs in several offensive categories, providing a glimpse of his future potential. However, despite his improved performance, the Phillies decided to trade him following the season, a decision that would later be heavily scrutinized.

Trading Money: Hindsight is 20/20

The Trade to Milwaukee

In December of 1972, the Phillies traded Don Money, along with John Vukovich and Bill Champion, to the Milwaukee Brewers for Jim Lonborg, Ken Sanders, Earl Stephenson, and a player to be named later (Alan Closter). At the time, the Phillies were looking to bolster their pitching staff, and Lonborg and Sanders were seen as valuable additions.

A Missed Opportunity?

In retrospect, the trade proved to be a significant misstep for the Phillies. Lonborg’s tenure in Philadelphia was underwhelming, and while Sanders provided some relief pitching, he wasn’t the long-term solution they hoped for. Meanwhile, Don Money blossomed into an All-Star with the Brewers, becoming one of the team’s most valuable players for many years. This trade is often cited by Phillies fans as an example of a deal that the team later regretted.

Money’s Flourishing Career in Milwaukee

After the trade, Money thrived in Milwaukee. He became a consistent offensive threat, earning four All-Star selections and establishing himself as one of the premier third basemen in the American League. His power numbers increased significantly, and he became known for his clutch hitting and overall solid play. His success in Milwaukee served as a constant reminder to Phillies fans of what could have been.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What position did Don Money primarily play for the Phillies?

Don Money primarily played third base for the Phillies, although he also filled in at other infield positions when needed.

2. How long did Don Money play for the Philadelphia Phillies?

Don Money played for the Phillies from 1968 to 1972, a total of five seasons.

3. Why did the Phillies trade Don Money?

The Phillies traded Don Money to acquire pitching depth, specifically Jim Lonborg and Ken Sanders. They believed these additions would strengthen their pitching staff and improve their chances of competing.

4. Did Don Money win any awards with the Phillies?

No, Don Money did not win any major awards during his time with the Phillies. His accolades came later in his career with the Milwaukee Brewers.

5. What were Don Money’s key statistics while playing for the Phillies?

While with the Phillies, Money’s batting average hovered around .230, with limited power numbers. His best offensive season was 1972, where he showed considerable improvement. However, it wasn’t enough to prevent the trade.

6. How did Don Money perform after being traded to the Milwaukee Brewers?

After being traded to the Milwaukee Brewers, Don Money blossomed into an All-Star. He significantly improved his offensive production, becoming a key contributor to the Brewers’ success.

7. Was Don Money an All-Star?

Yes, Don Money was a four-time All-Star, but all of those selections came during his tenure with the Milwaukee Brewers, not the Phillies.

8. How is Don Money remembered by Phillies fans?

Don Money is often remembered by Phillies fans as a player who showed potential but was traded before he could fully realize it. The trade is often viewed as a mistake, given his later success with the Brewers.

9. Did Don Money ever return to play for the Phillies?

No, Don Money never returned to play for the Phillies after being traded to the Milwaukee Brewers. He spent the remainder of his career with the Brewers and the Atlanta Braves.

10. What was Don Money’s jersey number with the Phillies?

Don Money wore jersey number 20 during his time with the Philadelphia Phillies.

11. How does Don Money rank among the best third basemen in Phillies history?

While Don Money was a solid defensive player, he doesn’t rank among the top tier of Phillies third basemen due to his limited offensive production during his time in Philadelphia. Players like Mike Schmidt are far more prominently remembered in Phillies history.

12. What lessons can be learned from the Phillies trading Don Money?

The Don Money trade serves as a reminder that player development is not always linear, and that sometimes it’s best to be patient with young talent. It highlights the risks involved in trading potential for perceived immediate gains, as player development timelines and outcomes are often unpredictable.

Conclusion

Don Money’s time with the Philadelphia Phillies was a formative period in his career, even if it didn’t bring the accolades and recognition he would later achieve. While his performance in Philadelphia might not have foretold his future success, it laid the groundwork for his development into an All-Star player with the Milwaukee Brewers. The trade that sent him to Milwaukee remains a subject of discussion among Phillies fans, a reminder of the unpredictable nature of baseball and the potential for missed opportunities. Regardless, Don Money’s name is forever etched in Phillies history, representing a chapter of promise, potential, and ultimately, a trade that could have been.