Lenny Dykstra

Former MLB center fielder known as 'Nails' and a key member of the 1986 World Series champion Mets.

Lenny Dykstra (born February 10, 1963), nicknamed Nails and Dude, is an American former professional baseball center fielder who played in MLB for the New York Mets (1985–1989) and Philadelphia Phillies (1989–1996). He was a three-time All-Star and won a World Series championship as a member of the 1986 Mets.

Quick Facts

All-star selections: 3 (1990, 1994, 1995, all with Philadelphia)

Lore & Background

Since his retirement, Dykstra has been mired in financial and legal troubles. In 2009, he filed for bankruptcy. Since then, he has been charged with and convicted of various crimes, including bankruptcy fraud, money laundering, grand theft auto, uttering terroristic threats, drug possession, and indecent exposure. Dykstra has served months in federal prison.

Reader's Guide

Dykstra was named the Carolina League MVP in 1983. He led the league in at-bats, runs, hits, triples, batting average and stolen bases that season, hitting .358 with 8 HR, 81 RBI, 105 stolen bases, 107 walks and only 35 strikeouts.