Baseball passings 2025

[Cowtipper]

A pretty big name to get this thread going. Don't have a cow, but Bob Veale, a two-time All-Star pitcher for the Pirates in the 1960s, died January 7.

https://www.al.com/sports/2025/01/birminghams-bob-veale-all-star-pitcher-with-pittsburgh-pirates-in-1960s-has-died-at-89.html

Who was Bob Veale?

Bob Veale, one of the most dominant strikeout pitchers of his era, enjoyed a remarkable Major League Baseball career from 1962 to 1974, primarily with the Pittsburgh Pirates before finishing with the Boston Red Sox. Known for his overpowering fastball, Veale led the National League in strikeouts in 1964 and remains the Pirates’ modern-era single-season strikeout leader with 276 in 1965. A two-time All-Star, he posted four seasons with 200+ strikeouts and seven seasons with 200+ innings pitched. Despite battling injuries later in his career, Veale transitioned to a bullpen role and was part of the Pirates’ 1971 World Series-winning team. Over his career, he compiled a 120–95 record with a 3.07 ERA and remains a top figure in Pirates history for his strikeout achievements. Following his retirement, Veale served as a minor-league pitching instructor and was inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 2006. He passed away on January 7, 2025, at the age of 89.

[MFS62]

After the 1960 World Series, in which the MFYs set all kinds of WS hitting records, but the Pirates won the Series, he said. "Good pitching stops good hitting. And Vice Versa".

(Veale was a minor leaguer and didn't get into the Series.)

He was a 6'6" lefty who wore thick glasses and must have scared the crap out of lefty hitters.

RIP

Later

[Frayed Knot]

For a while there it seemed (just like Cal Sharpie's favorite books this past year) that you needed a one syllable name in order to be part of the 1960's era Pirate pitching staffs:

Bob Veale, Steve Blass, Bob Moose, Roy Face, Vern Law, Bob Friend. They also had, for shorter periods, Don Schwall, Tommie Sisk, and Wilbur Wood

[Frayed Knot]

Brian Matusz - LHP, an eight year career (2009-16) with Baltimore (plus one game as a Cub) after being their 1st round (4th overall) draft pick in 2008

Dead at age 37. No cause yet announced.

[Edgy MD]

Man, that's sad to hear.

He was looking like a Cy Young-quality pitcher following a glorious second half of the 2016 season, then he caught about the worst case of Gopher Ball Virus ever. I think the damage he endured was a big factor in the Orioles moving the walls way back and raising them up as well.

[Cowtipper]

Harvey Branch, who played a single game for the Cardinals in 1962, died January 15, 2021, but his passing went unnoticed until just recently. Yours truly found this one and submitted it to SABR.

https://sabr.box.com/shared/static/8tvkhajhb864n0qdc4ftyu8wzq9h3xxp.pd

Who was Harvey Branch?

"Harvey Alfred Branch, a left-handed pitcher, had a brief Major League Baseball career consisting of a single start for the St. Louis Cardinals on September 18, 1962. Acquired from the Chicago Cubs earlier that month in exchange for pitcher Paul Toth, Branch faced his former team, allowing three runs over five innings and taking the loss in a 4–3 defeat. This game marked his only MLB appearance, with career totals of five innings pitched, three earned runs, five walks, and two strikeouts. Branch's professional baseball career spanned seven seasons in the minor leagues, where he found notable success, including a standout year with the San Antonio Missions in 1962, posting 216 strikeouts in 237 innings. Earlier in his career, while with the Paris Lakers, Branch once struck out 21 batters in a single game. After leaving baseball in 1964, Branch pursued higher education, earning degrees from Alabama State University and Jacksonville Theological Seminary. He became a chaplain, pastor, and author, dedicating his post-baseball life to spiritual and community service. Branch passed away in 2021, though news of his death was not widely reported until 2024."

[Edgy MD]

We'll have to dig up the 2021 thread and retroactively add poor Harvey.

[Frayed Knot]

Brian Matusz - LHP, an eight year career (2009-16) with Baltimore (plus one game as a Cub) after being their 1st round (4th overall) draft pick in 2008

Dead at age 37. No cause yet announced.

 

Though not specific as to which substance, "drug overdose" is the listed cause of death. Apparently there was a long history of use.

His body was found at his home by his mother.

[Edgy MD]

The implements reportedly found with him at the time of his death strongly imply that he died using methamphetamine.

[Cowtipper]

Tommy Brown, one of the few remaining players from the 1940s, the last guy to debut before 1945, and the last member of the pennant-winning 1947 and 1949 Dodgers, has passed away.

https://www.truebluela.com/2025/1/17/24344995/tommy-brown-dodgers

Who was Tommy Brown?

Tommy Brown, nicknamed "Buckshot," was a remarkable baseball player who debuted in Major League Baseball (MLB) at just 16 years old during the World War II manpower shortage. Signed by the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1944, Brown became the youngest non-pitcher to play in a major league game and quickly made an impression despite his youth. In 1945, he set a record as the youngest player to hit a home run, a feat he achieved at 17 years and 257 days, a record that still stands. Known for his strong but erratic arm, Brown transitioned through various positions during his career and played for the Dodgers, Phillies, and Cubs. He also had memorable moments in the Southern Association, including a record-breaking streak of reaching base 20 consecutive times. After retiring from major league baseball at 25, Brown worked at a Ford glass plant in Nashville for 35 years, reflecting on his unconventional childhood spent working on docks and playing street ball. Brown passed away in 2025 at the age of 97, leaving a legacy as a record-setting player and the last surviving major leaguer to debut before the end of World War II.

Also, who was Brian Matusz?

Brian Matusz, a standout left-handed pitcher, was the first pitcher selected in the 2008 MLB Draft, going fourth overall to the Baltimore Orioles. A Phoenix native, he excelled in high school and college, earning accolades for his dominant performances, including being named a second-team All-American and West Coast Conference Pitcher of the Year at the University of San Diego. Matusz made his MLB debut with the Orioles in 2009, quickly establishing himself as a promising talent with a strong rookie season in 2010, where he finished fifth in Rookie of the Year voting. Despite early success, injuries and inconsistent performances marred his career, including a record-setting losing streak in 2012. Transitioning to a bullpen role, he found renewed success as a reliever before being traded to the Braves in 2016 and later appearing briefly for the Cubs during their World Series-winning season.

After his MLB career, Matusz played in the minors, independent leagues, and internationally before retiring. Tragically, he died in January 2025 at the age of 37 from an apparent drug overdose. Known for his talent and resilience, Matusz's career reflected both the high pressures and challenges of professional baseball.

[Cowtipper]

Bobby Cuellar, who played in the majors in 1977 and became more famous as a coach, died January 20.

https://dodgers.mlblogs.com/influential-dodger-player-development-coach-bobby-cuellar-has-passed-away-48348557fe27

Who was Bobby Cuellar?

Robert Cuellar was a former professional baseball player and coach, known for his impactful career both on and off the field. Born on August 20, 1952, in Alice, Texas, Cuellar played briefly as a relief pitcher for the Texas Rangers in 1977, after being drafted by the team in 1974. His playing career was short-lived, largely due to shoulder issues caused by overuse during his time in the minors and winter ball. Cuellar transitioned into coaching following his playing days, making a significant mark as a pitching coach and bullpen coach across multiple MLB teams. He worked for the Seattle Mariners from 1983 to 1996. Cuellar also coached for the Montreal Expos, Texas Rangers, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Minnesota Twins (where he notably mentored future star Johan Santana, teaching him a circle changeup that became pivotal to Santana's success), and managed at various minor league levels, including with the Wausau Timbers and New Britain Rock Cats. Cuellar's coaching career spanned several decades, and he was recognized for his expertise with young pitchers, earning the 2023 Mike Coolbaugh Award for his dedication to the game. Cuellar passed away on January 20, 2025, at the age of 72 after suffering a heart attack.

Also, who was Felix Mantilla?

Félix Mantilla Lamela (1934–2025) was a Puerto Rican professional baseball player known for his versatility, primarily playing as an infielder during his 11-year Major League Baseball (MLB) career. He played for the Milwaukee Braves, New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, and Houston Astros. Mantilla's most prominent position was second base, but he also played shortstop, third base, outfield, and occasionally first base. A talented fielder, he was known by the nickname "El Gato" for his agility. Born in Isabela, Puerto Rico, Mantilla began his career in Puerto Rico's Winter League and was part of the national team that won the 1951 World Amateur Baseball Championship. He made his MLB debut in 1956 with the Braves and later contributed to their 1957 and 1958 World Series appearances, although he played a minimal role in both. After being selected by the Mets in the 1961 expansion draft, he had his most significant season in 1962, leading the team in at-bats and setting personal bests in batting average, home runs, and RBIs. His success continued with the Boston Red Sox, where he became an All-Star in 1965 and enjoyed several strong seasons, particularly in 1964 when he hit 30 home runs. Mantilla finished his MLB career with the Astros in 1966, after which he briefly pursued a minor league career. Beyond baseball, he was dedicated to promoting youth baseball in Milwaukee and Puerto Rico, creating the Félix Mantilla Little League and mentoring young players. Mantilla passed away in 2025 at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy in both baseball and community development.

Who was Jeff Torborg?

Jeffrey Allen Torborg, born November 26, 1941, in Westfield, New Jersey, was a former professional baseball catcher and manager who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1964 to 1973 for the Los Angeles Dodgers and California Angels. As a catcher, he played a key role in notable games, including catching Sandy Koufax's perfect game in 1965 and Bill Singer’s no-hitter in 1970, as well as Nolan Ryan's first no-hitter in 1973. After his playing career, Torborg transitioned into coaching and managing, beginning as the bullpen coach for the Cleveland Indians in 1977, later becoming their manager. He went on to manage the Chicago White Sox, New York Mets, Montreal Expos, and Florida Marlins. Torborg's managerial career was marked by successes, such as winning the American League Manager of the Year Award in 1990 with the White Sox. However, his time with the Mets and Marlins was less successful, leading to his firing in both instances. In the 1990s, Torborg found work as a broadcaster, contributing to CBS Radio and Fox, including color commentary for several World Series. He later returned to managing the Expos and Marlins before retiring from coaching. Torborg was also a color commentator for the Atlanta Braves on FSN South in 2006. His personal life saw him marry Suzie Barber in 1963, and his son, Dale, became a professional wrestler. Torborg, who battled Parkinson's disease, passed away on January 19, 2025, at the age of 83.

Who was Bob Uecker?

Bob Uecker, born January 26, 1934, and passed away January 16, 2025, was a celebrated American professional baseball catcher and sportscaster, widely known for his 54-season tenure as the play-by-play announcer for the Milwaukee Brewers. Uecker began his career in 1956 with the Milwaukee Braves, making his major league debut in 1962 and playing as a backup catcher for several teams, including the Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, and Philadelphia Phillies. He won a World Series with the Cardinals in 1964. After retiring in 1967, Uecker transitioned to broadcasting, becoming a beloved figure with his humorous, self-deprecating style. He worked for the Brewers from 1971 and became known for his catchphrases, such as "Get up! Get up! Get outta here! Gone!" He also gained fame through acting, particularly for his role on the sitcom Mr. Belvedere and as Harry Doyle in the Major League films. Uecker received numerous accolades, including the 2003 Ford C. Frick Award, recognizing his significant contributions to baseball broadcasting. His career extended beyond baseball, with appearances in commercials, television shows, and even wrestling events. Uecker's legacy is cemented through his enduring impact on sports broadcasting and his widespread popularity, earning him honors like induction into the National Radio Hall of Fame and the Wisconsin Sports Hall of Fame.

More:

Bob Uecker, born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on January 26, 1934, was a professional baseball player who became a renowned actor and broadcaster. Although he had a six-season career in Major League Baseball, his time on the field was largely spent as a backup catcher, with a batting average of .200 and 14 home runs. After retiring from baseball in 1967, Uecker worked for the Atlanta Braves in their media department before becoming the "Voice of the Brewers" in 1970. He was widely recognized for his humor, often poking fun at his playing career, and became a beloved figure in baseball. Uecker’s broadcasting career flourished, and he was known for his deadpan humor and iconic commercials. He also appeared on television, including a starring role on the sitcom Mr. Belvedere from 1985 to 1990, and in films like Major League. Uecker received the Ford Frick Award from the Hall of Fame in 2003 and was honored with a statue outside Miller Park in 2012. Despite undergoing open-heart surgery twice, he continued working as a broadcaster, with his 50th anniversary celebrated in 2021. Uecker remained active in the booth well into his 90s, calling his final game during the 2024 Wild Card Series. He passed away in January 2025 at the age of 90 after battling small cell lung cancer. Uecker's contributions to baseball and entertainment left a lasting legacy.

[G-Fafif]

Former commissioner Fay Vincent, 86.

[Frayed Knot]

I wonder if it was the Jew boys that got him?

[MFS62]

I wonder if it was the Jew boys that got him?

 

'Splain please

Later

[Frayed Knot]

The group of owners who banded together for the purpose of ousting Fay Vincent (Fred was among the anti-Fay clan, as were Selig, Reinsdorf, and enough others to

carry the day) were mostly (possibly entirely?) Jewish. Not that the religion of the owners in the group had anything to do with it, but that didn't stop the WASPish

Nelson Doubleday from calling Fay after the coup was a fait de accompli to say, "Looks like the Jew Boys got you".

[MFS62]

I was not aware of that quote.

But something like that doesn't really bear repeating without explanation or reference.

Without, it can be taken as bigoted.

Later

[Frayed Knot]

Rich Dauer - 10 year (1976-85) career as a 2B/3B, all with Baltimore, including their 1983 WS team - 72

[Gwreck]

I was not aware of that quote.

But something like that doesn't really bear repeating without explanation or reference.

Without, it can be taken as bigoted.

Later

 

Also it’s kind of crappy to associate Vincent with that quote in death when it wasn’t something he said.

[batmagadanleadoff]

I was not aware of that quote.

But something like that doesn't really bear repeating without explanation or reference.

Without, it can be taken as bigoted.

Later

 

Also it’s kind of crappy to associate Vincent with that quote in death when it wasn’t something he said.

FK told it like it was. There was no bigotry in FKs retelling. Are we supposed to whitewash history because somebody died? Was the leading headline on the day Hitler died supposed to be about that day when Hitler rescued a dying puppy dog?

Vincent was a famous figure. People are going to make crude, black humor jokes at his expense. It comes with the territory.

[Edgy MD]

The "joke," as much as it is a joke, is not at the expense of Fay Vincent, but at the expense of Nelson Doubleday.

Fay Vincent lost one the best jobs in America because he had the courage to hold George Steinbrenner accountable, and for that, he has my appreciation.

Dauer has my affection for carrying the nickname "Wacko" through a ten-year career.

[batmagadanleadoff]

The "joke," as much as it is a joke, is not at the expense of Fay Vincent, but at the expense of Nelson Doubleday.

 

That, too. Yes!

[Edgy MD]

Scott Sauerbeck, long-time Pirates reliever originally drafted by the Mets before he was Rule 5-d away, has reportedly died at 53 of a heart attack.

The story comes out of Bradenton, Florida, so I assume he was participating in camp with the Bucs.

[Cowtipper]

Who was Scott Sauerbeck?

Scott Sauerbeck was an American left-handed relief pitcher who played in Major League Baseball from 1999 to 2006. Originally drafted by the New York Mets in 1994, he developed in their minor league system before being selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 1998 Rule 5 draft. He became a reliable bullpen arm for the Pirates, particularly excelling in 1999 and 2002. Traded to the Boston Red Sox in 2003, he struggled before signing with the Cleveland Indians in 2004, missing that season due to injury. He returned in 2005 but was released in 2006 after poor performance and an arrest. Brief stints with the Oakland Athletics, Houston Astros, Toronto Blue Jays, Cincinnati Reds, and Chicago White Sox followed, though he never returned to the majors. Sauerbeck retired in 2008. He was arrested in 2006 for an incident involving a drunk companion and later died of a heart attack in 2025 at age 53.

Who was Rich Dauer?

Rich Dauer spent his entire 10-year Major League Baseball career with the Baltimore Orioles, serving as their primary second baseman and contributing to the team's success, including a World Series victory in 1983. Before his professional career, he was a standout player at the University of Southern California, helping lead the Trojans to consecutive College World Series titles in 1973 and 1974. Drafted in the first round by the Orioles in 1974, he quickly climbed the minor league ranks, earning recognition as the International League co-MVP in 1976 before making his major league debut later that year.

While Dauer was not known for his hitting, he was a reliable fielder, setting American League records for consecutive errorless games and errorless chances at second base. He played a key role in Baltimore’s 1979 and 1983 postseason runs, hitting a home run in Game 7 of the 1979 World Series, though the Orioles ultimately lost to the Pittsburgh Pirates. He was also part of the team’s lighthearted "Three Stooges" trio with teammates Todd Cruz and Rick Dempsey during the 1983 championship season.

Following his playing career, Dauer transitioned into coaching, spending nearly two decades as an MLB coach with teams including the Cleveland Indians, Kansas City Royals, Milwaukee Brewers, and Colorado Rockies. He managed in the minors and later joined the Houston Astros as first base coach, winning another World Series title in 2017. However, during the team's victory parade, he suffered a brain hemorrhage that required emergency surgery, though he later recovered enough to participate in team events in 2018.

Dauer’s health declined following a massive stroke in 2022, and he passed away in February 2025. He was inducted into the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame in 2012, recognized for his contributions to the franchise as both a player and a defensive cornerstone of their championship team.

Also, Dave Van Gorder died:

https://ballnine.com/2025/02/21/dave-van-gorder/

Who was Dave Van Gorder?

Dave Van Gorder was an American Major League Baseball catcher who played five seasons at the major league level for the Cincinnati Reds and Baltimore Orioles. Drafted by the Reds in the second round of the 1978 amateur draft, he began his professional career with the Double-A Nashville Sounds. After spending several years in the minors, he made his MLB debut in 1982, catching 51 games for the Reds but struggling at the plate with a .182 average. Over the next few seasons, he bounced between the majors and Triple-A, with his most active MLB season coming in 1985, when he appeared in 73 games and hit .238. Released by the Reds in 1986, he signed with the Orioles in 1987, appearing in 12 games before finishing his career in the minors. Despite his offensive struggles, Van Gorder was known for his defensive skills, posting a strong career fielding percentage of .990. He played professionally for a decade before retiring in 1987. Van Gorder passed away in Tucson, Arizona, on February 4, 2025, at the age of 67.

Jim Todd died.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/coloradocommunitymedia/name/james-todd-obituary?id=57530842

Who was Jim Todd?

James Richard Todd Jr. (September 21, 1947 – February 3, 2025) was an American professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball from 1974 to 1979 for the Chicago Cubs, Oakland Athletics, and Seattle Mariners. A left-handed batter and right-handed thrower, he was drafted by the Cubs in the 10th round of the 1969 MLB draft and made his debut in 1974.

His best season came in 1975 with the Athletics, where he recorded eight wins, 12 saves, and a 2.29 ERA, earning MVP votes while helping the team win the AL West. However, his performance declined in the following years, leading to trades and struggles, including a difficult 1977 season with the Cubs, where he posted an ERA over 9. He later joined the Mariners before finishing his career with the Athletics in 1979.

After being released in 1980 following a brief stint with the Phoenix Giants, Todd retired from professional baseball. He passed away in Parker, Colorado, on February 3, 2025, at the age of 77.

[Cowtipper]

Eddie Fisher died.

https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/43967427/eddie-fisher-all-star-reliever-world-series-champ-dies-88

Who was Eddie Fisher?

Eddie Fisher was a Major League Baseball pitcher who played for six teams between 1959 and 1973, primarily as a reliever. After being signed by the San Francisco Giants, he spent time in the minors before establishing himself with the Chicago White Sox, where he became one of the league’s top bullpen arms. A knuckleball specialist, he learned from teammate Hoyt Wilhelm and excelled in relief, particularly in 1965 when he led the American League in appearances, won 15 games, saved 24, and was named an All-Star. He also finished fourth in MVP voting that year and won the Sporting News Reliever of the Year award. Midway through 1966, Fisher was traded to the Baltimore Orioles and contributed to their World Series-winning season, though he did not pitch in the Fall Classic. He later played for the Cleveland Indians, California Angels, and St. Louis Cardinals before retiring in 1973. His career totals included an 85-70 record, 81 saves, and a 3.41 ERA across 690 appearances. After baseball, he returned to Oklahoma, where he became a bank president and owned a sporting goods business. Fisher passed away on February 17, 2025, at the age of 88.

Jim Lawrence died.

https://www.thespec.com/news/hamilton-region/jim-lawrences-promising-baseball-career-sidelined-by-shoulder-injury/article_fd2c9e01-3671-5d97-88ae-8d68d64f7a66.html

Who was Jim Lawrence?

James Ross Lawrence was a Canadian professional baseball catcher who briefly played in Major League Baseball for the Cleveland Indians in 1963. Appearing in just two games, he recorded three putouts but did not have a plate appearance and committed one error. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, he batted left-handed and threw right-handed. His professional career spanned seven seasons (1958–1964), all within the Indians organization. After retiring from baseball, he lived in Ontario until his passing on January 8, 2025, at the age of 85.

Bobby Malkmus died.

https://www.si.com/mlb/phillies/news/former-philadelphia-phillies-infielder-minor-league-manager-dies

Who was Bobby Malkmus?

Bobby Malkmus was an American professional baseball infielder, manager, and scout. He played in Major League Baseball for the Milwaukee Braves, Washington Senators, and Philadelphia Phillies between 1957 and 1962, primarily as a utility infielder. His most active season was 1961 with the Phillies, where he batted .231 with seven home runs in 121 games. Over his MLB career, he hit .215 with eight home runs and 46 RBIs.

Born in Newark, New Jersey, he signed with the Boston Braves in 1951 but spent two years in military service during the Korean War before resuming his baseball career. After brief stints with the Braves and Senators, he was selected by the Phillies in the Rule 5 draft, spending three seasons with them. He was notably the only batter not struck out by Warren Spahn in his first career no-hitter in 1960.

Following his playing days, Malkmus managed in the minor leagues for nine seasons before transitioning to scouting. He worked for the Cleveland Indians and San Diego Padres, continuing as a part-time scout for Cleveland until 2025. He passed away on February 23, 2025, at the age of 93.

[G-Fafif]

Betty Bonney was 17 when she sang on Les Brown’s “Joltin’ Joe DiMaggio” in 1941. She died in January at age 100.

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/06/arts/music/betty-bonney-dead.html

[MFS62]

Betty Bonney was 17 when she sang on Les Brown’s “Joltin’ Joe DiMaggio” in 1941. She died in January at age 100.

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/06/arts/music/betty-bonney-dead.html

I heard that song a lot when I was a kid.

RIP.

Later

[G-Fafif]

Famed sportswriter (and Mets fan) John Feinstein, 69.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/obituaries/2025/03/13/john-feinstein-sports-commentator-dies/

 

I grew up in New York; I’m still a New Yorker at heart and the New York teams are my teams. I’m a Mets fan…

 

https://povichcenter.umd.edu/still-no-cheering-press-box/chapter/John-Feinstein/index.html

[Cowtipper]

Felipe Montemayor died.

https://pittsburghbaseballnow.com/felipe-montemayor-obituary-pittsburgh-pirates/

Who was Felipe Montemayor?

Felipe Ángel Montemayor, born on February 7, 1928, in Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico, was a Mexican professional baseball player who made a brief but memorable mark in Major League Baseball. As an outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates, he played 64 games across the 1953 and 1955 seasons. Montemayor’s MLB career, though limited, included two home runs in a doubleheader against the St. Louis Cardinals in 1955, marking his highlight in the majors. However, his time with the Pirates was marked by struggles at the plate, batting .173 with 26 hits in 64 games.

Before his MLB stints, Montemayor had a notable career in the Cuban League with Cienfuegos, leading the league in triples and hitting two grand-slam home runs in consecutive games. He had been purchased by the Pirates from the Mexicali Eagles in 1951 after a strong performance in the Sunset League. After his brief time in the majors, Montemayor continued his career in the Mexican League, where he found more success, hitting .293 and earning a place in the Mexican baseball Hall of Fame in 1983.

Montemayor's professional career spanned 21 seasons, playing primarily in Mexico where he accumulated 133 home runs and a .250 career average in over 1,600 games. He retired from playing at age 40 and became a sportswriter in his hometown. Montemayor passed away on February 4, 2025, just a few days before his 97th birthday, leaving behind a legacy as one of the pioneering Mexican players in Major League Baseball.

Frank Saucier died.

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/08/sports/baseball/frank-saucier-dead.html

Who was Frank Saucier?

Francis Field Saucier, also known as Frank, was an American professional baseball player who played as an outfielder for the St. Louis Browns during the 1951 season. Despite a promising career in the minor leagues, where he showcased his hitting talent with a .446 batting average in 1949 and a .343 average in 1950, Saucier’s major league career was brief. His 18-game stint with the Browns included only one hit in 14 at-bats, earning him a .071 batting average.

Saucier’s place in baseball history is most notably tied to a publicity stunt orchestrated by Browns’ owner Bill Veeck. On August 19, 1951, Saucier was replaced by Eddie Gaedel, the shortest player in baseball history, in a pinch-hitting appearance that garnered much attention. Despite the oddity of the moment, Saucier held no ill will toward Gaedel or the event. In fact, he had been playing with an injury and was relieved to exit the game and return to Texas, where he later worked in the oil industry and eventually became the vice president and director of the First Savings and Loan Association in Amarillo.

Saucier’s minor league career was marked by impressive achievements, including winning the 1950 Minor League Player of the Year award and leading the Big State League with a .446 average in 1949. He also served in the U.S. Navy during both World War II and the Korean War, making him one of the few major leaguers to have served in both conflicts.

Saucier’s post-baseball life included a degree in math and physics from Westminster College, and he was later honored with the naming of Frank Saucier Field at his alma mater. He passed away on March 3, 2025, at the age of 98 in Amarillo, Texas.

Art Schallock died.

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/09/obituaries/art-schallock-dead.html

Who was Art Schallock?

Arthur Lawrence Schallock, known as Art, was a professional baseball pitcher who played for the New York Yankees and the Baltimore Orioles from 1951 to 1955. Born in 1924 in Mill Valley, California, Schallock had a strong early interest in sports and played baseball, tennis, and golf in high school. After serving as a radio operator in the U.S. Navy during World War II, he played semi-professional baseball before signing with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1946. He spent several years in the Dodgers' minor league system before being traded to the Yankees in 1951. Schallock made his major league debut with the Yankees that same year, and he played a role in the team's success, including participating in the 1953 World Series. Though he appeared in 58 major league games, Schallock's time in the big leagues was limited, and after being picked up by the Orioles in 1955, he retired from baseball in 1957.

Post-retirement, Schallock worked as a sporting goods salesman and in public relations. He was married to Dona Bernard for 76 years, and they had two children and five grandchildren. Schallock became the oldest living former MLB player in 2022, a title he held until his death in 2025. He celebrated his 100th birthday in 2024, and during his final years, he remained in good health, living in a retirement community in Sonoma, California. Schallock passed away on March 6, 2025, at the age of 100.

[Cowtipper]

Angel Torres died.

https://www.diariolibre.com/deportes/columnistas/2025/02/04/fallecio-el-exlanzador-angel-torres-el-chivo-azuano/2987912

Who was Angel Torres?

Ángel Torres was a Dominican left-handed pitcher who made a brief appearance in Major League Baseball with the Cincinnati Reds in 1977. Over five games, he posted a 2.16 ERA but did not record a win or a loss. Originally signed by the St. Louis Cardinals as an amateur free agent in 1971, he spent several years in their minor league system, excelling at the Double-A level but never receiving a call-up to the majors.

In 1976, Torres was traded to the Montreal Expos in a six-player deal before being sent to the Reds in May 1977. He split that season between Triple-A and the majors, making his MLB debut by striking out five batters in two innings. Despite solid minor league performances, he did not pitch in the big leagues again. He continued in Triple-A through 1980 and played his final professional season in the Mexican League in 1981.

Torres passed away on February 1, 2025, at the age of 72.

Jose Valdivielso died.

https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/pioneering-baseball-legend-yankees-broadcaster-passes-away-2041454

Who was Jose Valdivielso?

José Valdivielso was a Cuban-born shortstop who played in Major League Baseball for the Washington Senators and Minnesota Twins between 1955 and 1961. Known for his strong defensive skills, he appeared in 401 games but struggled offensively, posting a career batting average of .219. Before reaching the majors, he was signed by scout Joe Cambria after a solid season with the Lubbock Hubbers in 1953. He also played in the Cuban Winter League, leading the league in sacrifice hits twice.

His most active MLB season was in 1960 when he started 92 games at shortstop for the Senators, though he lost his role to Zoilo Versalles by season’s end. Valdivielso was also part of the only all-Cuban triple play in MLB history. His professional career lasted through 1964, finishing with 213 hits, nine home runs, and 26 doubles.

After retiring, he worked as a youth recreation director in New York City and later became a Spanish-language sports announcer, covering Yankees games on radio. He also worked as a retail counselor for White Rose, a major food distributor. Valdivielso passed away on March 4, 2025, at the age of 90.

Don Secrist died.

https://www.searbyfuneralhomes.com/obituary/donald-laverne-secrist

Who was Don Secrist?

Don Secrist was an American left-handed pitcher who played in Major League Baseball for the Chicago White Sox in 1969 and 1970. Standing 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing 195 pounds, he appeared in 28 games, all as a reliever. His professional career began when he signed with the Baltimore Orioles, and he later moved to the Cincinnati Reds' farm system, where he had a standout 1968 season, winning 11 games with a 2-loss record for the Triple-A Indianapolis Indians. He was then traded to the White Sox.

Secrist made his MLB debut in 1969, appearing in 19 games, including the home opener for the Seattle Pilots. His only major league decision came on July 16, 1969, when he took the loss against the Minnesota Twins after surrendering a home run to Rich Reese. He pitched nine more games for Chicago in 1970 before returning to the minors. In his MLB career, he pitched 54 2/3 innings, allowing 54 hits, nine home runs, and 26 walks while striking out 32.

After his playing days, Secrist lived in Centralia, Illinois, where he passed away on January 30, 2025, at the age of 80.

[Cowtipper]

Jim Breazeale died.

https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/former-braves-first-round-draft-pick-passes-away-2046866

Who was Jim Breazeale?

James Leo Breazeale Jr., born on October 3, 1949, was an American professional baseball player who played as a first baseman in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Atlanta Braves and the Chicago White Sox. A highly regarded amateur player at Sam Houston High School in Houston, Breazeale was drafted by the Braves in the first round of the 1968 MLB Draft. He made his MLB debut in 1969 and played for three seasons with the Braves (1969; 1971–1972) before joining the White Sox in 1978.

Breazeale’s career was impacted by a severe ankle injury in 1973, resulting from a car accident that kept him on the disabled list until June of that year. Despite being expected to become the starting first baseman for the Braves, the injury hindered his development. Over the course of his career, he played in 89 MLB games, with 179 at-bats, recording a .223 batting average, three home runs, and 33 RBIs. His final game in the majors was in 1978 with the White Sox.

Throughout his career, Breazeale also spent significant time in the minors, where he hit 124 home runs across eleven seasons, including seven seasons with the Richmond Braves. He briefly played winter ball in the Venezuelan League, but his career was slowed by injuries, including a severe leg injury after he learned to play catcher.

Breazeale’s MLB career was brief, but he did manage a memorable moment in 1978, hitting two home runs in a game against the Seattle Mariners. After his MLB career, Breazeale continued to live with health challenges, suffering heart failure in 2021 and using a left ventricular assist device until his death on March 13, 2025, at the age of 75.