MLB’s Greatest Same-Named Doppelgangers

In the world of baseball, it is not uncommon for players to share the same name as other famous players. These players, often referred to as “doppelgangers,” have their own unique stories and achievements in the sport. In this article, we explore eight such players who shared their names with more famous big leaguers.

1. Frank Thomas: Known as the “Big Donkey,” this Frank Thomas was an outfielder and first baseman who played from 1951 to 1966. He hit 25 or more home runs six times and was elected to three All-Star Games. Despite his impressive career, he is often overshadowed by the more famous Frank Thomas, also known as “The Big Hurt.”

2. José Bautista: This José Bautista was a pitcher who had his breakthrough as an Orioles Rule 5 Draft pick in 1988. He posted a 4.30 ERA in 171.2 innings that season and even set a modern MLB record with a 70-pitch complete game against the Mariners. However, his career was not as successful as that of the more famous José Bautista, who is known for his time with the Toronto Blue Jays.

3. Joe Morgan: This Joe Morgan was a long-time manager in baseball, managing the Pawtucket Red Sox and the Boston Red Sox. He is best known for his role in the 1981 game that lasted 33 innings, during which he was ejected in the 21st inning. Despite his achievements, he is often confused with the Hall of Fame second baseman, Joe Morgan.

4. Randy Johnson: Two Randy Johnsons reached the Major Leagues in the 1960s, both of whom were mustachioed like the more famous Randy Johnson. The first Randy Johnson played for the Twins in 1982 and hit 10 home runs in 89 games. The other Randy Johnson played for the Braves and had a career similar to the more famous Randy Johnson, who is known for his time with the Diamondbacks and Yankees.

5. Luis Gonzalez: This Luis Gonzalez played for the Rockies and had a brief career in Japan before being released for violating Nippon Professional Baseball’s drug policy. He is best known for his debut game, where he hit a two-run homer in the ninth inning against the more famous Luis Gonzalez.

6. Pedro Martinez: In the 1993-1994 seasons, there were two Pedro Martinez pitchers in the league. The more famous Pedro Martinez went on to become one of the greatest pitchers of all time, while the other Pedro Martinez had a career with the Dodgers and Expos.

7. Kevin Brown: There were two Kevin Browns in the league during the 1980s and 1990s. The right-handed hurler, who used his sinker to win 211 big league games, pitched for the Texas Rangers. The other Kevin Brown was a catcher who had a career as the third catcher on the depth chart for various teams.

8. Cliff Lee: This Cliff Lee was an outfielder, first baseman, and catcher who played for the Pirates, Reds, and Cleveland from 1919 to 1926. He had a successful career, hitting .322 with 17 home runs in 1922. However, he is often overshadowed by the more famous Cliff Lee, who is known for his time with the Phillies and Indians.

These players, although not as famous as their namesakes, have their own unique stories and achievements in the world of baseball. Their careers serve as a reminder that there are many talented players in the sport who may not receive the same level of recognition as their more famous counterparts.