Mike Squires, American baseball player and scout

Michael Lynn Squires, born on March 5, 1952, carved out a distinct and memorable career in Major League Baseball (MLB), primarily known for his exceptional defensive prowess and remarkable versatility. Over a decade-long professional journey, Squires became a familiar face for the Chicago White Sox, serving predominantly as a first baseman during his tenure from 1975 and then consistently from 1977 through 1985. While he may not have boasted the power hitting typically associated with a corner infielder, his glove work and strategic importance were undeniable, making him a valuable asset to the White Sox during a significant period in the team's history, particularly under manager Tony La Russa.

The Defensive Maestro: Gold Glove and White Sox Stalwart

For fans of the Chicago White Sox, Michael Lynn Squires was synonymous with reliable defense at first base. His reputation grew as a player who could, and often would, come into games in late-inning situations, especially when the White Sox held a slim lead, to shore up the defense. This specialized role underscored his immense value to the team. His defensive excellence was officially recognized in 1981 when he deservedly won the prestigious American League Gold Glove Award at first base, a testament to his consistent fielding mastery. Despite never hitting more than two home runs in any single season – a stark contrast to many power-hitting first basemen – Squires’ ability to consistently make the tough plays, scoop errant throws, and anchor the infield was crucial. He was an integral part of the early Tony La Russa era White Sox, contributing significantly to their exciting 1983 American League West championship run, a team famously known as the "Winning Ugly" squad.

A Pioneer of Versatility: Left-Handed Catcher and Third Baseman

Beyond his Gold Glove at first base, Michael Lynn Squires earned a unique place in MLB history due to his extraordinary versatility and willingness to play positions rarely, if ever, occupied by a left-handed thrower. On May 4, 1980, in an 11–1 loss against the Milwaukee Brewers at the historic Comiskey Park, Squires made headlines. Shifting from first base in the ninth inning, he became the first left-handed-throwing catcher in Major League Baseball since Dale Long in 1958. This wasn't a one-off curiosity; just three days later, on the same homestand, he again put on the tools of ignorance, coming off the bench in the ninth inning of a 12–5 defeat to the Kansas City Royals, replacing Bruce Kimm in both instances. This willingness to step behind the plate despite the inherent challenges for a lefty demonstrated his rare athletic adaptability.

Squires continued to rewrite the rulebook on defensive positioning a few years later. On August 23, 1983, during a 10–2 loss to the Royals in Kansas City, he entered the game for Vance Law in the bottom of the eighth inning, becoming the first left-handed-throwing third baseman in at least 50 years. This feat further cemented his legacy as one of baseball's most uniquely versatile players. His brief foray into the hot corner wasn't just a novelty; he would go on to play thirteen more games at third base the following season, including four starts at the position, proving his capability across the diamond.

Career Overview and Post-Playing Days

In a Major League Baseball career spanning 10 years and 779 games, Michael Lynn Squires compiled a respectable .260 batting average, collecting 411 hits in 1580 at-bats. While his offensive output included just 6 home runs, 211 runs scored, and 141 runs batted in, these numbers tell only part of the story. Defensively, his career fielding percentage was an outstanding .995, a testament to the consistency and reliability that defined his playing style. After hanging up his spikes, Squires remained deeply involved in the sport he loves. Today, he continues to contribute his keen eye for talent and extensive baseball knowledge as a scout for the Cincinnati Reds, helping to shape the next generation of baseball stars.

Frequently Asked Questions about Michael Lynn Squires

Who is Michael Lynn Squires?
Michael Lynn Squires is a former Major League Baseball (MLB) player, primarily a first baseman, who played for the Chicago White Sox for nearly a decade, known for his exceptional defense and unique versatility.
What team did Michael Lynn Squires play for?
He played almost his entire MLB career for the Chicago White Sox, from 1975 and then from 1977 to 1985.
What award did Michael Lynn Squires win?
In 1981, he won the American League Gold Glove Award for his outstanding defensive play at first base.
What is Michael Lynn Squires famous for?
Beyond his Gold Glove, Squires is famously known for being one of the rare left-handed throwers to play catcher (in 1980) and third base (in 1983) in MLB history, showcasing incredible versatility.
What was Michael Lynn Squires' role with the White Sox in the early Tony La Russa era?
He was a valuable defensive specialist, particularly as a first baseman, contributing significantly to the team's success, including their 1983 AL West championship under manager Tony La Russa.
What is Michael Lynn Squires doing now?
He currently works as a scout for the Cincinnati Reds, continuing his long career in professional baseball.