​With All-Star festivities kicking into high gear, we continue our series featuring 2x MVP Dale Murphy. Murphy spent 15 seasons with the Braves, and half of those years earned him a spot in the All-Star Game. In the 1980s, only one hitter surpassed Murphy in home runs, a distinction held by Mike Schmidt. Murphy sits down with The Crawfish Boxes for an exclusive conversation.
Q: Back in that era, it felt almost certain that fans would vote you in. You appeared in seven All-Star Games during the 1980s. What stands out to you about the 1986 game?
A: It’s funny, because that particular year, that game at the Astrodome, my numbers weren’t great, and I felt a bit strange about starting. But you’re right—the fans voted me in as a starter, and that was always an honor.
Q: You faced Roger Clemens in his first All-Star appearance, and he was clearly in the zone. What stands out about that moment?
A: I only saw one pitch from Clemens that night, and I grounded out to short. I had two at-bats, and then Chili Davis came in for me. My second at-bat came against Atlee Hammaker, I think. I told Whitey Herzog I was good with just one at-bat, but he kept me in the game.
Q: Historically, you had some big performances in the Astrodome. That night, though, was an exception to the norm. Did you enjoy playing in the Astrodome?
A: I’m not sure I could say I ever fully enjoyed playing in the Astrodome, to be honest. The venue was tough, and it was a credit to those Astros teams. Facing the likes of Nolan Ryan, Dave Stewart, and J.R. Richard made the mid-80s especially challenging. Plus, the dome’s ceiling presented its own issues—if you weren’t careful, tracking fly balls in the outfield could be tricky.
Q: What was the coolest moment from that night?
A: Without a doubt, getting to meet the sitting Vice President at the time before the game. He walked through the clubhouse, and all of us had the chance to speak with him. That was truly something special.
Q: What’s life like for you now?
A: I’m no longer chasing fly balls; I’m chasing after my grandkids here in Atlanta. (laughs)