On his 48th birthday, look back at Larry Walker's memorable MLB career

On December 1, 1966, All-Star right fielder Larry Walker was born. Not only was his MLB career excellent, but it also included run-ins with some key figures in MLB lore. 

He started out with the Montreal Expos, starring alongside Marquis Grissom, Moises Alou and Dennis Martinez. In fact, his career in Canada was bookended by two stints with Hall of Fame-caliber pitchers:

His first year with the Expos, 1989, happened to be Randy Johnson's last with the club before being traded to the Mariners at the end of the season. Walker's last year in Montreal, 1994, featured a young Pedro Martinez making his debut with the team.

From there, Walker took his talents to Denver to join up with the Rockies -- where he enjoyed and popularized the homer-happy perception of Coors Field.

In 1997, Walker crushed 49 home runs, put up a .366/.452/.720 slash line and won the NL MVP Award. But lest you think those numbers were inflated, he actually hit for slightly less power at home -- 29 of those dingers came on the road.

Including these three back in his old stomping ground in Montreal:

At midseason in 2004, Walker was traded to the Cardinals, where he helped them push forward on a World Series run. Unfortunately, that run was halted by the Red Sox with a sweep in what was their first World Series win in 86 years. 

But while the left-handed hitter's career was filled with brushes with the history of others, Walker was great enough to earn a spot on the Hall of Fame ballot in 2011 -- and while he hasn't been inducted, he remains eligible this year.

Probably due to his ability to switch-hit in a single at-bat:

Or his elite bowling talent:

I must share with all. Bowl in a league and tonight got my first perfect game!! 300! Never thought possible. #baskinginmyglory

- Larry Walker (@Cdnmooselips33) April 11, 2014

Either way, happy birthday, Larry!