Two Expos, One Verdict: Larry Walker vs. Tim Raines

Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Jake Cain

The Montreal Expos fielded some of the best players in Major League History during their time in existence. Two of the best to don the Expo jersey are Larry Walker and Tim Raines. Both have left indelible marks on the game, with stellar statistics, countless accolades, and memorable moments. Let’s explore their journeys, their impacts, and how they stack up against each other.

Early Careers and Breakthroughs

Larry Walker: A Late Bloomer with Raw Talent

Larry Walker’s path to Major League Baseball is as fascinating as his career. Growing up in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, he dreamed of being an NHL goalie before baseball captured his heart. The Montreal Expos signed him as an amateur free agent in 1984. Walker made his MLB debut in 1989 and quickly showcased his five-tool prowess: hitting for average and power, combined with exceptional fielding and speed.

By the mid-’90s, playing for the Colorado Rockies, Walker became one of the most feared hitters in the league. His breakout season came in 1997 when he won the National League MVP award with a .366 batting average, 49 home runs, and 130 RBIs. That year, Walker also led the league in slugging percentage (.720) and total bases (409).

Tim Raines: Speed and Consistency

Tim Raines, affectionately known as “Rock,” had a meteoric rise in the MLB. Born in Sanford, Florida, Raines was drafted by the Montreal Expos in the fifth round of the 1977 MLB draft. His debut in 1979 was just a taste of what was to come. By his rookie season in 1981, Raines was already setting records, stealing 71 bases—a rookie record at the time.

Raines’ career was defined by his speed and consistency. He led the NL in stolen bases for four consecutive years from 1981 to 1984, with a personal best of 90 steals in 1983. Beyond his speed, Raines was a formidable hitter, winning the NL batting title in 1986 with a .334 average.

Impact on the Game

Larry Walker: The Powerhouse from the North

Walker’s impact on the game is multifaceted. As a Canadian, he inspired a generation of young players in a country where hockey dominated the sports landscape. His performance in the high-altitude and hitter-friendly Coors Field often sparked debates about the influence of the environment on his stats. However, Walker’s consistent production, both at home and on the road, proved his prowess was not merely a byproduct of the ballpark.

Walker was also a defensive stalwart, earning seven Gold Glove awards, reflecting his elite fielding skills. His all-around abilities made him a complete player and a cornerstone for the teams he played for, particularly the Rockies.

Tim Raines: The Quintessential Leadoff Hitter

Raines brought an electrifying style of play to the game, redefining the role of the leadoff hitter. His ability to get on base, complemented by his extraordinary base-running, made him a constant threat. Raines’ career on-base percentage (OBP) of .385 is a testament to his plate discipline and batting skills.

Beyond his individual stats, Raines’ presence on the field energized his teams. His tenure with the Expos, White Sox, and Yankees not only bolstered their lineups but also provided a standard of excellence and professionalism.

Awards and Accolades

Larry Walker

• 5× All-Star (1992, 1997–1999, 2001)
• NL MVP (1997)
• 7× Gold Glove Award (1992, 1993, 1997–1999, 2001, 2002)
• 3× Silver Slugger Award (1992, 1997, 1999)
• 3× NL batting champion (1998, 1999, 2001)
• NL home run leader (1997)
• Colorado Rockies No. 33 retired
• Member of the National Baseball Hall of Fame (Inducted in 2020)