The main clue is the word “although,” which suggests a contrast. Here, despite having a strong reputation in his first, rookie season, the baseball player enjoyed his greatest recognition later in his career. Only "renown" fits the definition of having even greater recognition.

The fact that an expert would be astonished by the work of an individual suggests that it was unexpected. An amateur (the correct choice) completing such breathtaking work would cause this astonishment. 

The semicolon indicates there is a supporting connection between what is declared before and after the semicolon. If there is a lack of disciplined and stoical (accepting pain and hardship without complaining) soldiers, then there are probably too many of the opposite types of soldiers currently in the army. Only "hedonists" (pleasure seekers) fits this definition.

The “infamous scandal” and the loss of job and title indicate negativity in the politician’s experience. The only word among the answer choices which has a negative connotation is “censure,” which means expression of disapproval.

The invocation of simplicity means that the politician’s lower tax rates are never seriously considered or offered with any complexity. “Panacea,” which means cure-all or magical fix, is the only answer with the appropriate sense of lightness to the solution.

The key element to the sentence is the second clause, which indicates that the sales strategy is something the company wants to share with everyone. There is not an exactly perfect word, but each needs to be read in context. “Paradigm,” meaning model or example, is the best answer available.

To find the answer, look at the way the sentence is structured. Her driving habit was something she did despite the fact she was potentially harming herself, indicating the habit was something she could not help. “Proclivity,” meaning a strong tendency towards something, is the only answer choice that indicates such a meaning.

The opening phrase, “Once cordial,” indicates that the appropriate answer choice must be an antonym to “cordial,” which means warmth and good feeling.  Of all the answer choices, only “antagonism” conveys the appropriate meaning of rivalry or even hatred.

The “despite” at the beginning of the sentence is the best clue as to the correct answer.  With that word beginning the sentence, look for a word meaning that conveys a meaning different than “serious and respected.”  “Charlatan,” which means an impostor or fake, is the best answer.

That this individual stays home from social outings gives a strong hint that he may prefer being alone. This is what it means to be a "recluse."