#11: Sal Bando
Third baseman Sal Bando was a four-time All-Star for the Oakland Athletics, after making his debut in 1966, two years before the team left Kansas City. He led the league in games played four times, including three years in which he played all 162 games.
In 1973, Bando had the best Offensive WAR in the game, at 7.2. His defense was not nearly as good as his offense, but throughout his career, he amassed a 61.4 total career war – 166th all-time, and 112th among position players.
Bando was a well-rounded player, with a mix of on-base ability and power. His career, which spanned 16 seasons, began with 11 years in Oakland and ended with five years as a Milwakuee Brewer. During his time in Oakland, he averaged just .255/.359/.418, but he also swiped 60 bases, knocked in 796 runs, walked 792 times, and crushed 192 home runs.
When the A’s dynasty teams of the early 70s made their Championships run, Bando was always a key part of their success. Without him, the team would have looked much differently.
Next: Top 20 A's Hitters: #10