In 1985, Barfield batted .289 with an on base percentage of .369 and a slugging percentage of .536, which was 42 percent higher than the league average or adjusted OPS+. He hit for both power and speed, with 27 homers and 22 stolen bases. Further, as a defensive standout, he recorded 22 outfield assists and netting 6.8 Wins Above Replacement. His 1985 .289 season batting average was a career-high, and he became the first Blue Jays player to hit 20 homers and steal 20 bases in the same season. That season Toronto reached the playoffs for the first time in franchise history. In his only playoff competition—the American League Championship Series (ALCS)—Barfield batted .280 with 1 home run, 4 RBI, and 1 stolen base.