Monday, April 2, 2012 | 2:10 a.m.
Tim Pyznarski
One of only two players in franchise history to post a 20-20 season, Tim Pyznarski left an indelible mark on the early years of the Stars.
After being drafted by the Oakland A’s with the 15th overall pick in the 1981 draft, Pyznarski spent four seasons working up the A’s minor-league system with middling success before being traded to the San Diego Padres in 1985.
In his first season in Las Vegas, Pyznarski, who played both outfield and infield, hit .284 with 54 runs scored. His breakout came the following season, though, as Pyznarski hit .326 with 23 home runs, 25 stolen bases, 119 RBI and 93 runs scored.
It’s still arguably the best season in franchise history, and he was awarded the Pacific Coast League MVP award while leading the Stars to the PCL title under manager Larry Bowa. That team also included standouts such as catcher Benito Santiago and outfielder John Kruk.
Pyznarski was called up to the majors at the end of that season for what would turn out to be his only trip to The Show. In 15 games with the Padres, he had a .319 on-base percentage and two stolen bases.
That offseason, Pyznarski traded to Milwaukee and he also spent time in the Baltimore and Kansas City farm systems.
Pyznarski never made it back to the majors, but his legacy in Vegas is that of an All-Star.
Taylor Bern can be reached at 948-7844 or [email protected]. Follow Taylor on Twitter at twitter.com/taylorbern.
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