Kevin Bassnull – Baseball Player Biography, Career, Net Worth Information

Kevin Bass quietly walked away from baseball in 1995, ending a steady 14-year run in Major League Baseball. The switch-hitting outfielder played his best ball with the Houston Astros, hitting his peak in 1986 as an All-Star with a .311 average, 20 home runs, and 22 stolen bases. Bass wrapped up his career with a .270 average, 118 homers, and 151 stolen bases over 1,571 games.

He belonged to the wave of players who retired in the 1990s, closing out a chapter in baseball as the sport kept changing. Bass had his final MLB season with the Baltimore Orioles, playing his last game on October 1, 1995, at 36. He tried for a comeback with the Angels’ Triple-A team in Vancouver in 1997, but an Achilles injury made him call it quits for good on May 20 that year.

Bass bounced around several teams—the Brewers, Astros, Giants, Mets, and Orioles. He never got that World Series ring, but he built a name as a reliable, versatile outfielder who could hit with power and swipe bases from either side of the plate. That mix kept him in the big leagues for almost 15 years.

Early Life and Amateur Career

Kevin Bass’s baseball story started young. He showed promise early, playing neighborhood games and then moving into more organized baseball. That foundation set him up for what became a 14-year major league career.

Family Background

Kevin Charles Bass was born on May 12, 1959, in California. His family backed him from day one. Growing up in the 1970s baseball era, Bass looked up to the stars of that time.

His parents saw his athletic gifts and pushed him to try different sports. Baseball, though, really grabbed him. He often said his family’s work ethic and grit shaped him as an athlete.

High School and College Baseball

At Southridge High School, Bass became a standout with his bat and glove. Scouts and college coaches noticed. He started working on switch-hitting in high school, a skill that would become his trademark.

His coaches helped him sharpen his game and baseball smarts. After high school, Bass kept developing in college. He wasn’t a huge name among 1980s prospects, but his steady play caught the attention of pro scouts.

Path to Professional Baseball

In 1977, the Milwaukee Brewers drafted Bass in the second round. That kicked off his journey through the minor leagues. He moved up the ranks, working on his swing and defense.

Bass put up solid numbers in the minors and impressed with his speed and switch-hitting. Back then, teams loved players who could do a bit of everything.

By 1979, Bass had put himself in position for a shot at the majors. He debuted with the Brewers, showing that his mix of talent and determination could take him all the way.

Major League Debut and Detroit Tigers Years

Kevin Bass’s pro baseball journey started with promise. The Brewers drafted him, but he soon found himself with the Detroit Tigers early on.

Entering the Majors

The Milwaukee Brewers picked Bass in the second round in 1977. He worked his way up and made his big league debut on September 4, 1982, for the Brewers. That team ended up winning the AL pennant, so as a rookie, Bass got to see what a winning clubhouse felt like.

His time with Milwaukee was short—just a few games—before his career took a turn. He flashed some talent but needed more chances to play.

Role with the Tigers

After Milwaukee, Bass landed with the Detroit Tigers in a multi-player trade. Detroit mostly used him as a fourth outfielder and pinch hitter.

The Tigers’ outfield was packed, so Bass had to fight for playing time. He bounced between all three outfield spots and got most of his at-bats off the bench. His switch-hitting made him a handy option when the Tigers needed a spark.

When he did get chances, Bass made the most of them. He played wherever the team needed and brought some energy in late-game situations.

Key Early Performances

Bass didn’t put up huge numbers in Detroit, but he did have a few memorable games. When he got consecutive starts, he sometimes found his groove at the plate.

One stretch stands out—Bass picked up multiple hits in three straight games, showing off the potential that would later define his career. His ability to hit both lefties and righties made him a useful piece against tough pitching.

In the field, Bass showed good range and a solid arm. He once gunned down a runner at home to save a win, earning high-fives from teammates and coaches.

His Tigers stint was short, but those early experiences helped Bass get ready for bigger roles on other clubs.

Houston Astros Legacy

Kevin Bass really made his mark with the Houston Astros. Fans in Houston loved his power, speed, and the way he could switch-hit during the team’s competitive run in the 1980s.

Becoming an Astros Regular

The Astros brought Bass in from Milwaukee in 1982. He started as a backup outfielder but worked his way into the regular lineup by 1983.

Manager Bob Lillis gave him more starts, and Bass showed off his flexibility by playing all three outfield spots. By 1984, he’d locked down right field. His rise matched the Astros’ push to build a winning squad in the mid-‘80s.

Bass’s switch-hitting was a big plus in the Astrodome, where it was tough to score runs.

Notable Seasons and Achievements

Bass broke out in 1986, hitting .311 with 20 homers and 79 RBIs, and made his only All-Star team. He played a huge role as the Astros won the NL West.

He kept it going during the 1986 NLCS against the Mets, even though Houston lost a heartbreaker in six games. Between 1985 and 1987, Bass averaged 17 homers and 25 steals a year—pretty impressive for a switch-hitting outfielder.

He came back to Houston for a second stint from 1993 to 1994, helping out as a veteran on a young team. Over nine seasons with the Astros, he hit .281.

Franchise History and Impact

Bass stands out as one of the best switch-hitters in Astros history. In the mid-‘80s, he played alongside Jose Cruz and Billy Hatcher in a fun, athletic outfield.

He helped keep the Astros competitive during his prime. The 1986 team still holds a special spot in fans’ hearts, even if they didn’t make the World Series.

Bass bridged the gap between the Jose Cruz years and the Bagwell/Biggio era. Some folks overlook him when talking Astros history, but he really helped the team stay relevant.

He played a big part in the Astros’ shift from pitching-heavy teams in the early ‘80s to a more balanced style later on.

Astrodome Performances

Bass seemed to thrive in the Astrodome. The big outfield let him turn singles into doubles and track down deep fly balls.

The artificial turf fit his style. He used his speed and power to make things happen, especially in the home games. Bass could drive balls into the gaps, and his switch-hitting let him adjust to the stadium’s quirks.

Even though the Astrodome favored pitchers, Bass still put up strong numbers there. He’s still remembered for some big moments in that old dome, which lasted until 1999.

Career Highlights and Achievements

Kevin Bass put together a productive MLB career from 1977 to 1995, with his best years as a Houston Astro. He made an All-Star team and had several seasons where he stood out as a valuable outfielder.

All-Star Game Selection

Bass reached the top of the heap in 1986 when he made the National League All-Star team. That season with Houston, everything came together for him. The All-Star nod put him among the league’s best outfielders.

During that year, he showed off his full game—power, speed, defense. It was easily his most recognized season.

Best Batting Seasons

His best season was 1986, when he hit .311 with 20 home runs and 22 steals. That combo made him one of the most valuable outfielders around.

In 1989, he put up another strong year, batting .300 with decent power. Over his career, Bass kept up a steady .270 average. His switch-hitting gave managers a lot of flexibility.

Bass’s top seasons proved he could help his team in lots of ways.

Memorable Home Runs

Bass wasn’t a pure slugger, but he hit some clutch home runs when it mattered, especially for the Astros in the mid-‘80s playoff chases.

He even hit five homers in his final MLB season in 1995, showing he still had some pop left. Over his career, he smacked 118 home runs.

His power really showed up in 1986, when he hit 20 long balls. Bass had a knack for timely hits, often coming through in big moments.

RBIs and Victories

Bass really made a difference for his teams, especially with the Houston Astros. He came through in clutch moments, helping the Astros reach the postseason, including that memorable 1986 NLCS run.

Over his career, Bass drove in 558 RBIs across 1,270 games. His top season was 1986, when he knocked in 79 runs. He also played a part in a 4-0 win in his final MLB game on October 1, 1995, wrapping things up on a high note.

Bass wore the uniforms of several teams—Houston Astros, San Francisco Giants, New York Mets, and Baltimore Orioles. He brought his steady bat and outfield skills wherever he went, making himself a valuable piece for every club over his 14 years in the majors.

Important Teammates and Managers

Kevin Bass built strong relationships with important teammates and coaches throughout his MLB journey. These connections shaped his style and played a big part in his success, especially during his Astros years.

Playing with Jeff Bagwell and Jose Cruz

In the mid-1980s, Bass shared the Astros outfield with the legendary Jose Cruz. Cruz, a two-time All-Star, mentored Bass as he found his footing in Houston. Their partnership helped anchor the Astros’ defense back then.

When Jeff Bagwell landed in Houston in 1991, Bass was heading into his last season with the team before moving on to San Francisco. Their time together was short, but Bass got to witness the start of Bagwell’s Hall of Fame career.

That Bass-Cruz combo really worked, especially during the Astros’ 1986 division title run. Cruz brought steady play, while Bass mixed in power and speed—opposing pitchers didn’t exactly love facing them.

Mentorship from Bob Watson

Bob Watson had a big influence on Bass’s career. Watson played for Houston when Bass arrived from Milwaukee in 1982, and he later moved into the front office.

Bass once said, “Bob taught me about professionalism and preparation. He showed me what it meant to be a complete major leaguer both on and off the field.”

Even after Watson shifted to the front office, he kept supporting Bass’s growth. When Bass signed with the Giants as a free agent in 1990, Watson—now the Giants’ GM—brought him in, showing just how much he believed in Bass’s abilities.

Their working relationship stretched over a decade and crossed team lines, a testament to the respect between them.

Collaboration with Terry Collins

Terry Collins, who coached the Astros’ bullpen and later third base during Bass’s time, worked closely with him. Collins focused on details, helping Bass sharpen his defensive positioning and baserunning.

Bass credited Collins for improving his outfield play—especially his routes and throws. “Terry would have me out there early for extra work,” Bass recalled. “He saw things in my game that I didn’t even notice.”

When Collins managed the Astros’ Triple-A club in Tucson, he helped Bass during rehab stints. Their partnership showed how much coaching can shape a player’s performance and career.

Collins’s tactical mindset matched well with Bass’s athleticism, helping him get the most out of his prime years in Houston.

Other MLB Teams and Late Career

Kevin Bass showed his veteran skills with a few teams after Houston. He made stops with the Orioles, Marlins, and Mets as his career wound down.

Baltimore Orioles Years

Bass joined the Baltimore Orioles in 1995 after a second run with the Astros. Though he didn’t stay long, he helped as a veteran outfielder and pinch hitter during their playoff chase.

In Baltimore, Bass played 51 games and batted in his final MLB game on October 2, 1995, going 2-for-3 against the Tigers. Not a bad way to finish up.

He hit .244 for the Orioles and brought some leadership to the clubhouse. The younger players definitely benefited from his experience.

Florida Marlins Tenure

Before Baltimore, Bass spent 1993 with the expansion Florida Marlins. As one of the older guys on a brand-new squad, he brought some much-needed stability.

He mostly served as a fourth outfielder and pinch hitter, playing in 99 games and coming through with timely hits and solid at-bats.

Bass showed he could adapt—he went from everyday starter to filling in where needed for a young team.

New York Mets and Last MLB Games

Bass joined the New York Mets for part of the 1992 season before heading back to Houston. He played 64 games for the Mets, showing his usual versatility in the outfield.

After his last MLB season with the Orioles in 1995, Bass tried for a comeback. He signed with the California Angels in 1997 but only played four games at Triple-A Vancouver before an Achilles injury forced him to retire on May 20, 1997.

That wrapped up a career spanning from 1977 to 1997, marking Bass as a durable, adaptable outfielder who found ways to contribute across 14 big league seasons.

Notable Games and Moments

Kevin Bass had plenty of standout games that made him a clutch player. He had a knack for delivering when it mattered, especially with the Astros.

Memorable Comeback Performances

In 1986, Bass shook off a summer slump and delivered a game-winning hit against the Reds in July, sparking a turnaround for himself.

September 1989 brought another highlight. After two weeks out with a hamstring injury, Bass jumped back in with a 4-for-5 night against the Dodgers, including two doubles and three RBIs.

He had another hot streak in 1993 with the Giants. After missing games with a wrist injury, Bass came back and hit safely in seven straight at-bats across two games against the Cubs and Cardinals.

Home Runs Against Star Pitchers

Bass didn’t shy away from top pitchers. In 1986, he crushed a memorable homer off Mets ace Dwight Gooden in a big September game.

He showed his power again in 1987, hitting a towering shot off Nolan Ryan—pretty rare for a switch-hitter.

In 1991 with the Giants, he took All-Star closer Lee Smith deep to give San Francisco a late win over the Cardinals.

Even late in his career, Bass kept taking big-name pitchers deep, including Tom Glavine in 1994.

Standout Games in Anaheim and Camden Yards

Bass enjoyed some great days as a visitor in Anaheim. In August 1988, he went 5-for-5 against the Angels, racking up a double and three RBIs.

He made his last MLB appearance in Anaheim just before retiring on October 1, 1995, picking up two hits in a win.

At Camden Yards, Bass seemed to thrive. In June 1993, he went 4-for-4 with two doubles and a home run.

His last game at Camden Yards in 1995 saw him notch a multi-hit effort and make a sliding catch in right field—proof that his defense still held up, even as he got older.

Rivalries and Competition

Kevin Bass went up against plenty of tough opponents, creating some memorable matchups that fans still talk about from the ‘80s and early ‘90s.

Facing Barry Bonds and National League Contenders

Bass squared off with Barry Bonds plenty of times while playing in the National League. Their paths crossed often—Bass with the Astros and Giants, Bonds with the Pirates.

Bass once said, “You always had to bring your A-game when Barry was on the field.”

These duels heated up when both vied for All-Star spots in the mid-‘80s. In 1986, when Bass made his only All-Star appearance, both he and Bonds were among the league’s best outfielders.

The competition wasn’t just personal—the Astros and other NL West contenders battled fiercely for playoff spots.

Classic Matchups with Other Teams

Bass took part in some classic Astros games during the 1980s. His role in the 1986 NLCS against the Mets stands out, even if it ended in heartbreak for Houston.

He also played big parts in the Astros-Dodgers rivalry, with those games often deciding playoff berths. Bass came through in plenty of those tight contests.

In San Francisco, Bass joined the Giants-Dodgers rivalry, and though he wasn’t there long, he helped keep the fire burning in that classic feud.

His last stop with the Baltimore Orioles in 1995 dropped him right into the AL East race. He wrapped up his career after hitting .244 with five homers that season.

Retirement and Life After Baseball

Kevin Bass closed out his playing days after the 1995 season, ending a 14-year run in the majors. Life after baseball took him in a few different directions.

Final MLB Appearance in 1995

Bass finished his pro career after the 1995 season, having played 1,571 major league games. His last year was with the Orioles, and by then his playing time had dropped off quite a bit from his prime.

Throughout his career, Bass made a name for himself as a switch-hitter with speed and power, especially during his Astros days in the ‘80s. He retired at 36, which isn’t unusual for a ballplayer as the game starts to catch up with you.

He gave it one last shot in 1997, but an Achilles’ injury kept him out of the majors. Bass officially retired on May 20, 1997, after only four minor league games.

Post-Retirement Ventures

After baseball, Bass jumped into business and stayed connected to the game. Born May 12, 1959, he still had plenty of life ahead of him when he retired.

He kept close ties with Houston, where he’d spent most of his career. Bass showed up at Astros alumni events and charity gigs, keeping his name alive with the fans who remembered his best years.

A lot of people still recall Bass’s role in some of the most memorable Astros games of the ‘80s. That popularity helped him transition into business around Houston after his playing days.

Bass’s baseball journey started on the sandlots and youth leagues, and he’s shared those experiences with younger generations since leaving the field.

Legacy and Hall of Fame Consideration

Kevin Bass made a real mark on baseball fans, even if Cooperstown never called his name. His energy on the field and those big moments in Astros history really stuck with people who watched him play.

Impact on Baseball Fans

Kevin Bass turned into a fan favorite during his years in the majors, especially in Houston. There, he was a key part of the 1986 NL West champion Astros. Watching him switch-hit with both power and speed? Honestly, it was just fun.

He gave fans plenty of moments to remember. Bass played in some of the best Astros games of the ’80s, and those memories still stick with people who followed the team back then.

His easygoing nature and steady play won over a loyal crowd. Even after he retired in 1995, fans kept talking about what he brought to the game.

Assessment of Hall of Fame Credentials

Bass played in 1,571 major league games, but his stats just don’t quite reach the usual Hall of Fame level. His peak came in 1986: he hit .311 with 20 homers and 79 RBIs, making his only All-Star team that year.

For a good stretch, Bass stood out as one of the better right fielders around. He was steady and skilled, but his career totals just don’t have the eye-popping numbers Hall of Fame voters usually look for.

Some of his career highlights:

• All-Star in 1986
• .270 career batting average
• Big part of playoff teams
• Known for switch-hitting with both power and speed

Connections With Fellow Players and Opponents

Kevin Bass built real friendships and earned respect in clubhouses all over the league. He connected with teammates and even opponents, showing his character on and off the field.

Playing Against Jim Abbott and Other Pitchers

Bass faced a bunch of tough pitchers, but Jim Abbott stands out. Abbott, who pitched without a right hand, always gave Bass a challenge.

Bass often talked about how tricky Abbott’s delivery was. That glove-switching move? It made picking up the ball tough. Facing Abbott really forced Bass to adjust his approach at the plate.

Other pitchers Bass remembered well:

• Nolan Ryan (Bass once said Ryan’s fastball felt “like trying to hit a bullet”)
• Orel Hershiser (Bass struggled with Hershiser’s sinker)
• Dwight Gooden (He called Gooden’s curve “the nastiest in the league”)

These matchups showed Bass really studied the game and respected the guys he played against.

Relationships with Moises Alou, Steve Finley, Doug Drabek

Bass got close with several teammates, especially Moises Alou and Steve Finley in Houston. He mentored Alou, helping him get used to big-league pitching.

With Finley, Bass shared the outfield and pushed each other to get better. Their communication out there didn’t go unnoticed—coaches pointed it out all the time.

He and Doug Drabek had a friendship built on mutual respect. Bass once joked, “Doug was the kind of pitcher you hated facing but loved having on your team.”

Bass liked to keep the team close, too. He’d organize dinners and fishing trips on the road, just to keep everyone connected.

Encounters with George Arias and Jorge Fabregas

As his career wound down, Bass crossed paths with younger guys like George Arias and Jorge Fabregas. Their time together wasn’t long, but Bass still made an impact.

During spring training in 1995, he took Arias aside, gave him hitting tips, and talked through how to approach certain pitchers. Arias later said Bass helped him get better with his discipline at the plate.

With Fabregas, Bass struck up an unexpected friendship. The veteran outfielder and rookie catcher bonded over their “smart play over flashy stats” mentality.

Bass always said, “The game gave me so much, I owe it to pass along what I’ve learned to the next generation.” He really meant it.

Statistics and Career Summary

Kevin Bass put together a solid 14-year run in the majors, putting up good numbers mostly as an outfielder. His stats show a steady, sometimes outstanding, career.

Career Totals

Bass played 1,571 big-league games and ended up with a .270 batting average. He played from 1977 to 1995, spending 10 of those seasons with the Astros—actually, he had two different stints with Houston.

He piled up 1,369 hits and 118 home runs. His best year was 1986, when he made the All-Star team and put up some of his best numbers.

Bass never got a World Series ring, but he did play his last season with the Orioles in 1995, appearing in 111 games.

Comparative Stats with Peers

Compared to other outfielders from his era, Bass was a steady contributor, not a superstar. His .270 average was a bit above league average, which says something about his consistency.

He could switch-hit and handle both righties and lefties, which made him extra useful for any team. Coaches liked having that kind of flexibility in the lineup.

Bass also played solid defense, which rounded out his game. He never led the league in any big stat, but his all-around skills and long career show he was valuable.

His best seasons came with the Astros, where fans really embraced him as a dependable piece of some pretty good Houston teams in the ’80s.

Influence on Baseball Culture

Kevin Bass left a real impact on baseball that went beyond just numbers. The way he played and the way he connected with fans helped shape baseball culture in the ’80s and early ’90s.

Role in the Evolution of the Game

Bass came up during a time when baseball was shifting—from the power-hitting ’70s to the more balanced ’80s. As a switch-hitter with both speed and pop, he really fit the mold of the versatile outfielder teams started to look for.

Younger players, especially in Houston, took notes from Bass. He showed that it paid off to develop a range of skills instead of just focusing on one thing.

He played winter ball too, like in the Mexican Winter League, where he led in hits and batted .319. That kind of international experience became more common for players looking to improve and grow.

Reputation Among MLB Fans

Bass built a strong relationship with fans, especially in Houston. He became one of the most popular Astros of the ’80s. Those classic Astros games he played in are still talked about.

Fans liked Bass for his steady play and his ability to do a little bit of everything. Over his 14-year career and 1,571 games, he kept a .270 average—not too shabby.

He’s even in the SMC Sports Hall of Fame, which shows how much baseball people still appreciate what he did. Bass’s style—mixing speed, power, and defense—made him a favorite for fans who liked all-around players.

Even after he hung up his cleats, Bass stayed popular, especially with Astros fans. That says a lot about what he meant to the teams he played for.

References and Further Reading

If you want to dig deeper into Kevin Bass’s baseball journey, there are a few solid places you can check out.

Baseball-Reference.com lays out a ton of stats from Bass’s career, running from 1982 to 1995. You’ll find everything from his height and weight to his rookie year and position info.

The Society for American Baseball Research (SABR) put together a detailed profile of Kevin Bass, charting his path through the majors and mentioning when he retired on May 20, 1997, after an Achilles tendon injury. It’s got a bit more color than just numbers, if that’s your thing.

Looking for game highlights? SABR has a writeup on the July 2, 1995 game, where Bass played a part in the Orioles’ comeback against the Blue Jays. That one sticks out for a lot of fans.

If you’re into the nitty-gritty, Baseball-Reference breaks down Bass’s RBI stats across different games. There’s plenty to sift through if you want to see how he performed in clutch moments.

There’s also Wikipedia, which covers the basics—Bass was born on May 12, 1959, and spent most of his time in the majors playing right field.

You’ll spot Bass’s name in books about the Houston Astros from the 1980s, especially when writers talk about the team’s playoff runs. He definitely left his mark during those years.