TTM Stats
- Sent: 12/27/2021 | Received: 5/21/2022 | 154 Days
- ’87 Donruss, ’87 Topps, ’88 Topps
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
- Sent: 11/12/2020 | Received: 12/20/2022 | 750 Days
- ’90 Leaf, ’91 Score (returned one card unsigned)
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
- Sent: 3/16/2024 | Received: 8/16/2024 | 150 Days
- ’85 Fleer Update, ’89 Topps, ’89 Upper Deck
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
In the mid-1980s, baseball fans were captivated by Oddibe McDowell, a dynamic outfielder whose combination of speed, defense, and athleticism made him a standout on the field. As the first player in Major League Baseball history to hit for the cycle in the history of the Texas Rangers, McDowell brought excitement to every game he played. Although his career was relatively brief, his impact on the game and his journey to the big leagues remains a compelling story.
Oddibe McDowell was born on August 25, 1962, in Hollywood, Florida. An athletically gifted child, he excelled in multiple sports but gravitated toward baseball, where his speed and agility gave him a natural edge. McDowell’s path to the majors began at Arizona State University, where he was a star for the Sun Devils. In 1984, McDowell had a season to remember, winning the Golden Spikes Award as the best amateur baseball player in the United States. His stellar play earned him national attention and cemented his status as one of the most promising young talents in the game.
McDowell was selected by the Texas Rangers in the first round of the 1984 MLB Draft, going 12th overall. He made his debut on May 19, 1985, and quickly made an impression with his ability to cover ground in the outfield and create havoc on the basepaths. In his first full season in 1986, McDowell showcased his all-around talent, batting .266 with 18 home runs, 49 RBI, and 33 stolen bases. That same year, on July 23, he etched his name into baseball history by hitting for the cycle against the Cleveland Indians—a rare feat that further elevated his profile.
While McDowell’s early promise was undeniable, injuries and inconsistency limited his ability to reach his full potential. After four seasons with the Rangers, he was traded to the Cleveland Indians in 1989. He also spent time with the Atlanta Braves and briefly returned to the Rangers before his major league career ended in 1994. Over his seven-year MLB career, McDowell played in 830 games, batting .253 with 74 home runs, 266 RBI, and 169 stolen bases. His blend of power and speed made him a valuable player, even if his production didn’t always match the lofty expectations of his early career.
Following his retirement, McDowell transitioned to a quieter life away from the spotlight. He has remained connected to the game through coaching and mentoring young players, sharing his knowledge and experiences to inspire the next generation. McDowell’s time at Arizona State also continues to be celebrated, as he remains one of the program’s most decorated alumni. His Golden Spikes Award and collegiate achievements are a testament to his immense talent and the foundation he laid before his professional career.
Oddibe McDowell may not have had the long or storied career of some of his contemporaries, but his impact on the game remains significant. As a player, he brought a rare combination of speed, athleticism, and flair to the field, making him a fan favorite and a key contributor to every team he played for.
For baseball enthusiasts, McDowell represents the joy and unpredictability of the game—a player who could make something happen at any moment, whether with a diving catch in center field or a daring steal on the basepaths.
In reflecting on Oddibe McDowell’s career, it’s clear that his story is one of talent, determination, and an enduring love for the game of baseball. His legacy lives on in the memories of fans who watched him play and the young athletes he continues to inspire.
The Score on Oddibe McDowell – 6.5
These are all of the recent returns I have from Oddibe in my backlog. The first thing I notice about all of these is that he varies things even within the returns. Sometimes he personalized, it looks like he changes the bible verse, and other things like that. Some of these are improvements on things I’ve gotten from him in the past, but all of them are really good returns.
Thanks Mr. McDowell! I’m giving this batch of returns a 6.5.
These is third post of returns from him. To see the other returns, check out these posts:
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.