He played for the Detroit Tigers (1977–1980), Minnesota Twins (1981), Philadelphia Phillies (1983–1985), and New York Mets (1986).

[2] Corcoran was overlooked in the amateur draft and signed with the Detroit Tigers in June 1974 as a free agent.

He compiled a .346 batting average at Evansville early in the 1977 season and was promoted to the Tigers in May 1977.

[2][6] Corcoran returned to the minor leagues in 1979, appearing in 87 games for Evansville where he had a .338 batting average and 50 RBIs.

[2] In September 1981, Corcoran was sent to the Minnesota Twins as part of an earlier that sent Ron Jackson to the Tigers.

[4] He compiled a .311 batting average and had 93 RBIs in helping Portland win the 1983 Pacific Coast League championship.

[8] In 1984, Corcoran made the Phillies' lineup, appearing in 102 games, including 34 starts at first base and 16 in the outfield.