I think that the game is the game. I think that expansion is good for the game because it gives more jobs to the people and more ballplayers can play, but I think the game is still the game. The ballplayers, they come into the game with one thing in mind - it's their job.

In 1969 Oliva led the AL in hits (197) doubles (39) and third in batting average (. During spring training 1961 Oliva appeared in the Twins' final three spring training games collecting seven hits in ten at bats. These five home runs still stand as a Major League record for the most home runs in a single inning and were hit off starter Catfish Hunter (three) and reliever Paul Lindblad (two).

His career was hampered by knee injuries forcing him to become a designated hitter during his final four years of baseball. He played his entire 15-year baseball career for the Minnesota Twins (1962–1976).