UPI Names Angels’ Rick Burleson AL Comeback Player of the Year

Rick Burleson, who rebounded from four years of rotator cuff trouble to contribute to the Angels’ division-winning season, Monday was named United Press International’s American League Comeback Player of the Year.

Burleson, 35, batted .284 with 5 homers and 29 RBI and played three infield positions in helping the Angels capture the AL West title. He appeared in just 11 games in 1982, 33 in 1983, 7 in 1984 and none in 1985.

In a poll of 24 UPI baseball correspondents, Burleson received all but five votes. Kansas City pitcher Dennis Leonard received three votes and New York pitcher Dennis Rasmussen and Boston pitcher Roger Clemens one each.

“It’s an honor to win the award because of all the time I put in trying to and finally coming back,” Burleson said.

Burleson has another comeback in store. His six-year, $4.6-million contract expired after last season and the Angels have indicated they don’t want him back in 1987.