BASEBALL

Doug Pensinger / Getty Images Frank Robinson

FRANK ROBINSON
It’s hard to imagine a genuine superstar in any sport who is less appreciated than the current Washington Nationals manager, who, by the way, was baseball’s first black manager back in 1975. But forget his managing career. This guy hit 586 home runs — that’s 50 more than the far more celebrated Mickey Mantle hit — and batted .294 over 21 seasons, including a Triple Crown in 1966. He was a quality outfielder and fierce competitor, who wasn’t afraid to break up a double play by sliding hard into a middle infielder covering second. So why no respect for Mr. Robinson? Blame it on fellow slugging outfielders Mantle, Hank Aaron and Willie Mays, who overshadowed Robby during their parallel playing careers. But only Robinson won an MVP award in both leagues.

Honorable Mention:

Eddie Murray: Dour personality with media prevented this slugging switch-hitter from getting proper recognition for being an RBI and clutch-hitting machine.

Rafael Palmeiro: He’ll have more than 3,000 hits and 500 homers yet he’s never started an All-Star Game and some – stunningly – question his Hall of Fame credentials.

Bernie Williams: His skills have eroded, but no way the Yankees win four World Series in the Joe Torre Era without this classy switch-hitting centerfielder.