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The muscular Diaz could play first base, outfield, catcher, or third base, but always seemed best-suited for DH. He was popular and a good pinch hitter. His 12 HR in 1986 were second to teammate Barry Bonds among NL rookies. He tied a ML record with no putouts at first base in a nine-inning game on June 26, 1987. (ME)

FROM THE BASEBALL CHRONOLOGY » March 27, 1984: The Phillies trade outfielders Gary Matthews and Bob Dernier and pitcher Porfi Altamirano to the Cubs for reliever Bill Campbell and catcher Mike Diaz. Matthews was the MVP of the NLCS last season, while Campbell led the National League with 82 appearances. Dernier will win a Gold Glove in CF for Chicago and help them reach the playoffs. His 45 steals will be the most by a Cub since 1907.