Baseball passings 2025

[MFS62]

Japanese baseball icon Shigeo Nagashima - 89.

Player and manager:

https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=nagash000shi

https://www.yahoo.com/sports/article/dodgers-shohei-ohtani-shares-6-035924236.html

Later

[Cowtipper]

Verle Tiefenthaler died.

https://www.dahnandwoodhouse.com/obituary/verle-tiefenthaler

Who was Verle Tiefenthaler?

Verle Matthew Tiefenthaler (July 11, 1937 – May 28, 2025) was a right-handed pitcher who briefly played Major League Baseball for the Chicago White Sox in 1962. A native of Carroll, Iowa, Tiefenthaler was signed by the New York Giants in 1955 and spent seven years in the minors before being sent to Chicago as part of the trade that brought Billy Pierce to San Francisco.

He made his MLB debut on August 19, 1962, in a relief appearance against the Detroit Tigers, during which he infamously surrendered a grand slam to Bill Bruton. He pitched in just three games for the White Sox, compiling a 0–0 record, a 9.82 ERA, and one strikeout across 3⅔ innings. After one final season in Triple-A in 1963, he retired from professional baseball.

Tiefenthaler was also notable for rooming with future Hall of Famer Gaylord Perry while playing for the Tacoma Giants. He passed away in his hometown of Carroll, Iowa, in 2025 at the age of 87.

[Cowtipper]

Johnny O'Brien died.

https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/seattle-university/johnny-obrien-a-seattle-u-legend-and-ex-mlb-player-dies-at-94/

Who was Johnny O'Brien?

Johnny O'Brien was a versatile Major League Baseball player who played both as a second baseman and a pitcher, most notably for the Pittsburgh Pirates between 1953 and 1959. Born in South Amboy, New Jersey, in 1930, he was the twin brother of Eddie O'Brien, with whom he shared a unique sports journey—from starring in both basketball and baseball at Seattle University to becoming the first twins to play on the same MLB team in the same game. Drafted by the NBA's Milwaukee Hawks, they chose baseball instead. Johnny had a standout year at the plate in 1955, hitting .299, and also pitched intermittently, though less effectively. After his playing days, he served in public office in Washington State and held various roles in broadcasting and the energy industry. He was inducted into his high school’s sports hall of fame and remained connected to athletics throughout his life. He died in 2025 at the age of 94, outliving his brother by over a decade. His grandson, Riley O'Brien, is also a professional pitcher.

[Edgy MD]

The Baltimore Banner put together this story (you may or may not get past the paywall) on the ugly spiral leading to the early end of Brian Matusz.

Includes no small bit of Buck Showalter content. It's a pretty deep dive, but as neither his teammates nor his ex-wife would go on record, they still end up getting perhaps half the story, and probably less than that. But if you need to see a well-liked ballplayer spiral down, this is the story for you.

[Cowtipper]

Vic Harris died.

https://www.mckaysmortuaries.com/obituary/victor-harris?lud=C78E174E63B324C4F17A8D1755F49B9A

Who was Vic Harris?

Victor Lanier Harris (1950–2025) was a versatile American professional baseball player who spent eight seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1972 to 1980. A switch-hitting utility man known for his speed and defensive versatility, Harris played for five MLB teams: the Texas Rangers, Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals, San Francisco Giants, and Milwaukee Brewers.

After excelling at Los Angeles Valley College and earning Junior College All-American honors, Harris was drafted in the first round of the 1970 MLB Draft (secondary phase) by the Oakland Athletics. He showed early promise in the minors, leading multiple teams in offensive categories. In July 1972, he was traded to the Rangers and made his MLB debut the next day.

Harris made history with a record-setting 0-for-35 hitless start to his career but rebounded to become the Rangers’ regular second baseman. In 1973, he was moved to center field and posted career highs in games played, home runs (8), and RBIs (44). After that season, he was traded to the Cubs in a blockbuster deal involving Hall of Famer Ferguson Jenkins. Harris struggled offensively in Chicago and underwent knee surgery in 1974, derailing his potential as a starter.

Over the next several years, Harris filled a utility role with the Cardinals, Giants, and Brewers, playing all over the diamond. In total, he played at least 27 games at six different positions, most frequently at second base. His MLB career totals include a .217 batting average, 13 home runs, and 121 RBIs across 579 games.

In 1981, Harris revitalized his career in Japan with the Kintetsu Buffaloes, hitting 22 home runs and driving in 74 runs in his debut season—numbers that exceeded any of his MLB outputs. He became only the fourth player in Nippon Professional Baseball history to homer from both sides of the plate in a single game, and repeated the feat in 1983. However, declining performance and injuries ended his professional career after a stint with the Louisville Redbirds in 1984.

Following baseball, Harris worked in aerospace with Rockwell and Boeing and later served as an instructor at MLB’s Urban Youth Academy from 2006 to 2013. He passed away on April 26, 2025, at the age of 75. Harris is remembered as a promising talent who became a valued utility player and international contributor to the sport.

Diego Segui died.

Who was Diego Segui?

Diego Pablo Seguí González (born August 17, 1937, in Holguín, Cuba) was a Cuban professional baseball pitcher best known for his longevity, versatility, and unique place in MLB history. A right-hander with a signature forkball, Seguí played 15 MLB seasons from 1962 to 1977, compiling a 92–111 record, 3.81 ERA, 1,298 strikeouts, and 71 saves.

Seguí played for eight different MLB teams, including both of Seattle’s major league franchises—the Seattle Pilots (1969) and the Seattle Mariners (1977)—making him the only player to appear for both and to pitch in each team’s inaugural game. He was affectionately nicknamed “The Ancient Mariner” at age 39 during his brief stint with the Mariners.

His best MLB season came in 1970 with the Oakland Athletics, when he led the American League with a 2.56 ERA. That followed a standout year with the Seattle Pilots in 1969, where he set career highs in wins (12), saves (6), and was named the team’s Most Valuable Player.

Seguí was a true swingman—capable of starting or relieving—who contributed to several clubs including the Kansas City/Oakland A’s, Washington Senators, St. Louis Cardinals, and Boston Red Sox, for whom he pitched in the 1975 World Series.

Outside MLB, Seguí had an exceptional international career. In the Mexican League, he pitched for a decade, posting a 96–61 record with a 2.91 ERA and throwing a no-hitter in 1978. He was even more dominant in the Venezuelan Winter League, where he became the all-time strikeout leader (941) and ranks among the top five in wins, ERA, and innings pitched.

Seguí was inducted into the Venezuelan Baseball Hall of Fame (2003) and the Hispanic Heritage Baseball Museum Hall of Fame (2006). His legacy continues through his son, David Seguí, a 15-season MLB first baseman.

Diego Seguí remains a celebrated figure in Latin American baseball history and a symbol of durability and international excellence.

Matt Murray died.

https://www.maxbrannonandsons.com/obituaries/matthew-murray

Who was Matt Murray?

Matt Murray was a right-handed pitcher born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1970. He played briefly in Major League Baseball during the 1995 season for the Atlanta Braves and Boston Red Sox. Standing 6'6" and weighing 240 pounds, Murray batted left-handed. His MLB career was short, spanning from his debut on August 12, 1995, to his final game on September 25, 1995. Over that time, he recorded a win-loss record of 0–3, an earned run average (ERA) of 9.64, and struck out 4 batters.

After his time in MLB, he also pitched in Taiwan’s Chinese Professional Baseball League for the Brother Elephants in 1997, where he pitched 2 innings with a 9.00 ERA and 2 strikeouts. Matt Murray passed away on June 24, 2025, at age 54 in Calhoun, Georgia.

Also, who was Ron Taylor?

Ron Taylor was a Canadian-born Major League pitcher and later a physician, known for his pivotal role in the 1969 "Miracle Mets" championship and for becoming one of the few athletes to successfully pivot into a medical career. Born in Toronto in 1937, Taylor pitched in the majors from 1962 to 1972, beginning with the Cleveland Indians before stints with the Cardinals, Astros, Mets, and Padres. He earned World Series rings with both the 1964 Cardinals and 1969 Mets, distinguishing himself as a reliable reliever and a steady presence in big moments, including a key Game 4 save in the ’64 Series and strong outings in the ’69 postseason.

Taylor was highly educated for a ballplayer, holding an electrical engineering degree from the University of Toronto, which he completed while beginning his baseball career. After retiring from the game, he returned to school at 35 and became a medical doctor, eventually serving over two decades as the Toronto Blue Jays’ team physician and running a sports medicine clinic. His transition from the mound to medicine was inspired in part by a USO tour to Vietnam, where he was struck by the work of military doctors.

Fans remember him for his intelligence, humility, and generosity—buying beers for soldiers in Vietnam, giving time to kids at YMCA gyms, and sharing stories with Mets fans decades after retirement. He was deeply respected for his service to both the game and his community. Taylor was honored with inductions into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Canada's Sports Hall of Fame, and received the Order of Ontario for his achievements. He passed away in 2025, leaving behind a legacy as both a World Series champion and a healer.

More

Ron Taylor was a Canadian-born Major League Baseball pitcher and physician, remembered for a unique dual career in professional sports and medicine. Born in Toronto in 1937, Taylor pitched for five MLB teams between 1962 and 1972, including the Cleveland Indians, St. Louis Cardinals, Houston Astros, New York Mets, and San Diego Padres. He was part of two World Series-winning teams: the 1964 Cardinals and the 1969 "Miracle Mets." Known for his effective relief pitching, Taylor maintained a 3.93 ERA over 800 innings, with 74 saves in 491 games, and was perfect in four career World Series appearances, never allowing a hit.

Taylor balanced his early baseball career with academics, earning a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Toronto. After retiring from baseball, he returned to school to study medicine, inspired by a USO trip to Vietnam. He earned his medical degree in 1977 and became the long-time team physician for the Toronto Blue Jays, serving for over 30 years and earning two more World Series rings with them in 1992 and 1993. Known as “Doctor Baseball,” he also ran a private medical practice in Toronto until his retirement in 2014.

Widely honored in Canada, Taylor was inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame, and the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame. He was also appointed to the Order of Ontario in 2005. He passed away on June 16, 2025, at the age of 87 after a long illness, leaving behind a legacy that bridged excellence in both athletics and medicine.

And finally, Chuck Cottier died -- in 2021. Rumors has been spreading for a while that he'd passed, but nothing was solid enough that I felt comfortable posting it. However, the word seems to be spreading.

https://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=cottich01

Who was Chuck Cottier?

Chuck Cottier was a right-handed second baseman, manager, and coach in Major League Baseball whose career spanned multiple decades. Born in Delta, Colorado in 1936, he played nine seasons in the majors between 1959 and 1969 for the Milwaukee Braves, Detroit Tigers, Washington Senators, and California Angels. Though a light hitter with a lifetime batting average of .220, Cottier was known for his solid defense and leadership. His best season came in 1962 with career highs in several offensive categories.

After an Achilles tendon injury ended his playing career in 1969, he began managing in the minors, earning praise from players for his leadership and baseball acumen. He joined the Mets as a coach from 1979 to 1981, later serving on staffs with the Mariners, Cubs, Orioles, and Phillies. In 1984, he became manager of the Seattle Mariners, compiling a 98–119 record before being dismissed early in the 1986 season.

Beloved by fans, colleagues, and family alike, Cottier was remembered as an aggressive third base coach—nicknamed "The man with the Golden Arm"—and a passionate manager, once famously throwing first base into right field during a heated argument. Off the field, he was described as humble, kind, and generous with his time and wisdom. His only child, Cody, was a devoted supporter. Cottier passed away in Edmonds, Washington in 2021 at age 85.

[Cowtipper]

Ed Mickelson died.

https://www.schrader.com/obituary/edward-mickelson

Who was Ed Mickelson?

Edward Allen Mickelson (September 9, 1926 – June 27, 2025) was an American professional baseball player best remembered for his long and productive minor league career and a brief, historically notable stint in Major League Baseball (MLB). A right-handed first baseman standing 6'3" and weighing 205 pounds, Mickelson played in just 18 MLB games across three teams—the St. Louis Cardinals (1950), St. Louis Browns (1953), and Chicago Cubs (1957)—while spending the bulk of his 11-season career in the minors.

Born in Ottawa, Illinois, Mickelson served in World War II (1944–1946) before attending Washington University in St. Louis and Oklahoma A&M, where he played college baseball. He signed with the Cardinals in 1947 and excelled in the minors, hitting .413 across two leagues in 1950, which earned him a short call-up to the majors.

His most historically significant MLB moment came on September 27, 1953, when he drove in the final run in St. Louis Browns history, an RBI single against the Chicago White Sox. That marked his third and final major league hit. He did not play for the Browns’ successor, the Baltimore Orioles, and finished his MLB career with three hits in 37 at-bats.

Despite limited major league success, Mickelson was a standout in the minors, amassing 1,374 hits and batting .316, including several successful seasons in the Pacific Coast League with the Portland Beavers. He noted the league's favorable conditions and good pay compared to MLB.

Mickelson authored a memoir, Out of the Park: Memoir of a Minor League Baseball All-Star (2007), where he shared insights from his career, including his first MLB hit off Hall of Famer Warren Spahn.

He passed away at age 98 in 2025, making him the third oldest former MLB player at the time. His death left Billy Hunter as the last living former St. Louis Brown.

Also, who was Dave Parker?

David Gene "Cobra" Parker (June 9, 1951 – June 28, 2025) was a towering and powerful left-handed slugger whose MLB career spanned from 1973 to 1991. Known for his cannon arm, explosive bat, and outsized presence, Parker played primarily as a right fielder, most notably with the Pittsburgh Pirates and later with the Cincinnati Reds, Oakland Athletics, and several other clubs. In his prime, he was among the most feared hitters in baseball, winning two National League batting titles and the 1978 NL MVP award. He was a seven-time All-Star and a three-time Gold Glove winner, anchoring the "We Are Family" Pirates team that won the 1979 World Series. In 1985, he became the inaugural Home Run Derby champion and finished second in MVP voting with the Reds, where he enjoyed a renaissance after early career struggles with injuries and drug abuse. Parker's immense talent was shadowed for years by his central role in the Pittsburgh drug trials of the 1980s, which likely suppressed his Hall of Fame candidacy during his 15 years on the BBWAA ballot. Despite strong career statistics—2,712 hits, 339 home runs, and 1,493 RBIs—he peaked at just 25% of the vote. Ultimately, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2025 by the Veterans Committee, joining the likes of Dick Allen as a slugger whose off-field controversies delayed his recognition. Known for his style and swagger—he was one of the first players to wear an earring on the field and used a sledgehammer to warm up—Parker also served as a coach and ran businesses in retirement. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2012, he dedicated much of his later life to raising awareness and funds for a cure. He passed away on June 28, 2025, at the age of 74, shortly before he was to be formally inducted into Cooperstown.

[Cowtipper]

Hosken Powell died.

https://www.startribune.com/minnesota-twins-detroit-tigers-byron-buxton-rocco-baldelli/601383465

Who was Hosken Powell?

Hosken Powell was an American professional baseball outfielder who played in Major League Baseball from 1978 to 1983, primarily with the Minnesota Twins and later with the Toronto Blue Jays. Born on May 14, 1955, in Selma, Alabama, Powell batted and threw left-handed, stood 6-foot-1, and attended Chipola College. Drafted by the Twins in the first round of the secondary phase of the 1975 draft, he hit over .300 in each of his first three minor league seasons and was a California League All-Star in 1976.

Powell debuted on Opening Day in 1978 as the Twins’ starting right fielder and leadoff hitter. His rookie season saw him hit .247 in 99 starts. He enjoyed his best major league season in 1979, batting .293, and followed that with a career-high 127 hits in 1980, though his average dipped to .262. That year he also led AL right-fielders in errors. His production declined in 1981, and he was traded to Toronto, where he rebounded in 1982 with a .275 average in 112 games, mostly as a reserve. However, a poor start to 1983 led to his release.

After leaving the majors, Powell played in the minors for the Vancouver Canadians and ended his pro career in the Mexican League in 1985. Over six MLB seasons, he appeared in 594 games, collecting 470 hits, including 78 doubles, 17 triples, and 17 home runs, with a .259 career batting average. Notably, he hit his first big-league homer off Hall of Famer Jim Palmer and had strong career numbers against both Palmer and Fergie Jenkins. Powell was named to the 1978 Topps All-Star Rookie Team. He died on June 28, 2025, at age 70.

Bill Dailey died.

https://www.lotzfuneralhomevinton.com/tributes/William-Dailey

Who was Bill Dailey?

Bill Dailey was a right-handed relief pitcher who played in the major leagues from 1961 to 1964, appearing with the Cleveland Indians and the Minnesota Twins. Born on May 13, 1935, in Arlington, Virginia, he stood 6-foot-3 and weighed 185 pounds. After nearly nine years in the minor leagues, where he showed early promise—leading the 1955 Three-I League in ERA—Dailey debuted with the Indians in 1961.

His best season came in 1963 with the Twins, when he posted a 6–3 record, a 1.99 ERA, and 21 saves in 66 games, ranking among the league leaders in both appearances and saves. However, a rotator cuff injury in 1964 cut his career short. Over 119 major league games, all in relief, Dailey compiled a 10–7 record, a 2.76 ERA, and 22 saves while striking out 109 batters in 185 2/3 innings. He died on January 11, 2025, at the age of 89.

[Cowtipper]

Let's catch up on some non-player mini-bios:

Walt Jocketty died.

https://www.mlb.com/news/walt-jocketty-former-cardinals-and-reds-gm-passes-away-at-74

Who was Walt Jocketty?

Walt Jocketty was a highly respected Major League Baseball executive whose career spanned over four decades. Born on February 19, 1951, in Minneapolis, he began his baseball career with the Oakland Athletics in 1980, eventually becoming Director of Baseball Administration. He played a key role in developing the team's farm system and helped establish the Arizona Rookie League and the Dominican Summer League.

After a brief stint as assistant GM of the Colorado Rockies in 1994, Jocketty became general manager of the St. Louis Cardinals later that year. Over 13 seasons with St. Louis, he helped build one of the league's most successful franchises, guiding the team to seven division titles, two National League pennants (2004, 2006), and a World Series championship in 2006. He was a three-time Sporting News Executive of the Year and brought manager Tony La Russa from Oakland to St. Louis, further strengthening the club's leadership.

Jocketty was dismissed by the Cardinals in 2007 due to reported internal disagreements. He quickly joined the Cincinnati Reds as a special advisor in 2008 and became the team's general manager just months later. Under his leadership, the Reds returned to prominence, and he later served as President of Baseball Operations and executive advisor until his death.

Walt Jocketty died on April 25, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona, at the age of 74. He was widely recognized for his eye for talent, front office leadership, and contributions to player development across multiple organizations, and was honored with induction into the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame.

Roy Majtyka died.

Facebook

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM

Who was Roy Majtyka?

Roy Majtyka was an American baseball coach, infielder, and longtime minor league manager. Born on June 1, 1939, in Buffalo, New York, he played in the St. Louis Cardinals organization from 1959 to 1967, reaching Triple-A but never making the majors as a player. His most successful season was 1963, when he batted .281 with the Tulsa Oilers.

Majtyka transitioned into managing in 1968, beginning a 27-year career in the minor leagues that included time with the Cardinals, Reds, Tigers, Braves, and Phillies organizations. His teams amassed a career record of 1,832 wins and 1,747 losses, and he earned several accolades, including a Florida State League championship in 1973 and Eastern League Manager of the Year honors in 1976. He led multiple teams to playoff berths and won another championship with the 1983 Birmingham Barons.

From 1988 to 1990, Majtyka spent three seasons as a coach with the Atlanta Braves—the only break from his lengthy minor league managerial run. He later became a respected figure in the South Atlantic League, ranking among the top 20 all-time in minor league managerial wins.

Roy Majtyka died on February 24, 2025, in Wagoner, Oklahoma, at age 85.

John Shulock died.

https://www.strunkfuneralhome.com/obituary/john-shulock

Who was John Shulock?

John Richard Shulock was a Major League Baseball umpire whose career spanned from 1979 to 2002. Born on April 29, 1949, in Lockport, New York, he died on June 5, 2025, in Vero Beach, Florida. Shulock began his baseball journey as a minor league infielder in the Minnesota Twins organization from 1967 to 1969 but never made it to the majors as a player. He transitioned into umpiring in 1974 and rose quickly through the ranks, reaching the major leagues in 1979 during the MLB umpire strike, when he crossed picket lines to become a replacement umpire. This decision earned him a permanent spot in the American League but also long-standing resentment from his peers, who labeled him a "scab" and excluded him from the umpires’ union.

Despite the controversy, Shulock earned a reputation as a skilled umpire, working 3,050 major league games. His assignments included two World Series (1985, 1992), two All-Star Games (1983, 1994), four AL Championship Series, and two AL Division Series. He even reached the rank of crew chief. Notable moments in his career included being on the field for Nolan Ryan's sixth no-hitter and Rickey Henderson’s 3,000th hit, which also marked Tony Gwynn’s final game. However, his temper occasionally got the better of him. In 1999, he was suspended three games after charging the mound during a game, wrongly believing he had been intentionally targeted by a pitch. His remarks afterward, including a wish for harm to the pitcher, drew further criticism.

Though his early entrance into MLB was fraught with controversy, Shulock lasted over two decades in the big leagues and was regarded by many players as one of the league's better umpires.

Who was Fay Vincent?

Fay Vincent was an American lawyer, film executive, and baseball commissioner who served as the 8th Commissioner of Major League Baseball from 1989 to 1992. A graduate of Williams College and Yale Law School, Vincent overcame a devastating spinal injury in college that left him partially disabled for life. Before entering baseball, he held leadership roles at Columbia Pictures and Coca-Cola. He became deputy commissioner under Bart Giamatti and ascended to commissioner after Giamatti's sudden death in 1989.

Vincent's tenure as commissioner was marked by major events and bold decisions. He oversaw the 1989 World Series, which was famously interrupted by the Loma Prieta earthquake. He banned Yankees owner George Steinbrenner for life (later reinstated) for paying a gambler to find damaging information on player Dave Winfield. He also permanently suspended pitcher Steve Howe for repeated drug offenses (a decision later overturned). Vincent redefined what constitutes a no-hitter and formally recognized Roger Maris as the single-season home run record holder.

He was deeply critical of owner collusion in the 1980s, helped end the 1990 lockout, and attempted to realign the National League geographically—an effort blocked by the Chicago Cubs, resulting in litigation. His relationship with owners soured over time due to his independent streak, his handling of disciplinary matters, and the financial fallout of a TV contract with CBS. He resigned in 1992 after a no-confidence vote by the owners, who replaced him with Bud Selig. Vincent later said his refusal to serve the owners' interests over the game's integrity cost him his job.

After baseball, Vincent remained active in the sport as president of the New England Collegiate Baseball League and became a vocal critic of both the 1994 strike and the steroid era. He also authored a memoir, *The Last Commissioner*, and remained outspoken on baseball and public issues until his death. Vincent died of bladder cancer on February 1, 2025, at age 86.

Who was John Feinstein?

John Feinstein was a prolific American sportswriter, author, and commentator, best known for his deep and humanizing explorations of athletes, coaches, and the culture of sports. Born in New York City in 1955, he graduated from Duke University in 1977 and went on to write 44 books, blending investigative journalism with narrative storytelling. His most famous work, A Season on the Brink, followed coach Bobby Knight and the Indiana Hoosiers through the 1985–86 basketball season and helped establish Feinstein as a major figure in sports literature.

His writing spanned a wide range of sports—golf (A Good Walk Spoiled), football (Next Man Up), baseball (Where Nobody Knows Your Name), and more—often highlighting lesser-known stories and personalities with a journalist’s eye and a novelist’s voice. He also authored a series of sports-themed young adult mysteries featuring teen reporters Stevie Thomas and Susan Carol Anderson covering major sporting events.

Feinstein worked across many media platforms, including The Washington Post, Golf Digest, Sporting News, NPR, The Golf Channel, and various radio programs. He briefly hosted shows on SiriusXM and CBS Sports Radio. His book Caddy for Life, about Tom Watson’s longtime caddie Bruce Edwards, was turned into a Golf Channel documentary and drew attention for its emotional depth.

Despite shifting media roles, Feinstein remained a dedicated columnist and published his final piece in The Washington Post the day he died. Known for his sharp insights and passionate defense of ethical journalism, he often challenged powerful sports institutions and figures. He died of a heart attack on March 13, 2025, at age 69, leaving behind a legacy as one of America's most respected and widely read sportswriters.

Also, one straggler:

Gary Boyd died.

Who was Gary Boyd?

Gary Lee Boyd, born August 22, 1946, in Pasadena, California, was a former right-handed pitcher who briefly played in Major League Baseball with the Cleveland Indians during the final two months of the 1969 season. He appeared in eight games, including three starts, finishing with an 0–2 record and a 9.00 earned run average over 11 innings. Control issues plagued his major league stint, as he walked 14 batters while striking out nine.

Boyd was originally signed by the Indians as an amateur free agent out of Junipero Serra High School in Gardena, California, and spent several years in their minor league system from 1965 to 1971. Known as a power pitcher, he consistently struck out over 100 batters in each of his first three professional seasons. However, his minor league career featured moderate success, with a career record of 46–52 and a 4.26 ERA over eight seasons. His best minor league season came in 1970, when he went 9–8 for the Savannah Indians.

After his major league experience, Boyd played one more season in the Chicago White Sox organization with the Tucson Toros before retiring in 1972.

[Edgy MD]

A curtain is drawn on an era with the passing at 97 of infielder Billy Hunter at 97 — the last member of the inaugural 1954 Baltimore Orioles, as well as the last surviving St. Louis Brown.

Billy was a rookie All-Star in 1953, despite hitting .219 and having a negative WAR. This suggests that (a) he was an otherworldly fielder, ( The Browns were simply a horrible team, © they had a really funny way of picking All-Stars back then, (d) maybe he was MUCH better in the first half than the second, or (e) some combination of all-of-the-above.

The other All-Star on that Brownie team was their 46-year-old closer Leroy "Satchel" Paige.

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[metirish]

[TWEET]

[/TWEET]

 

How sad , Rest in peace

[MFS62]

Billy was a rookie All-Star in 1953, despite hitting .219 and having a negative WAR. This suggests that (a) he was an otherworldly fielder, ( The Browns were simply a horrible team, © they had a really funny way of picking All-Stars back then, (d) maybe he was MUCH better in the first half than the second, or (e) some combination of all-of-the-above.

 

 

The answer is (f) none of the above. The rule at the time was that every team had to have a representative, and Billy was it for the O's. This was the team that, when he bought the club, new owner Bill Veeck put the entire team on waivers and nobody was taken by any major league club. So, Billy could say he was the best of the worst.

I guess if you think about it, that could be answer ©.

Later

[Edgy MD]

Well, it was with the Browns, and not the Orioles, and the rule that every team had to be represented is the same rule we have today. And the idea that he was the best among bad options for a team that had to send someone was indeed covered by (, and as noted, he was not the team's only All-Star.

[Frayed Knot]

Bobby Jenks was huge, both personally [listed at 6' 4" / 275 - and was every bit of that] and as a rookie out of the pen for the ChiSox WS team of 2005

My one over-riding memory from that post-season was the time Sox had two right-handers warming up in the pen. When manager Ozzie Guillen signaled for a reliever the

crew in the pen didn't know which one. Ozzie, seeing their confusion, spread his arms out wide to indicate the big dude and the pen immediately knew what he meant.

Typical high octane reliever in a lot of ways. Capable or dominant outings but, like a lot of that type, walked too many and ultimately had a short prime and short-ish career.

A seven season career, six with white socks on and his final one wearing red socks, but was done by age 30.

44 y/o

[Edgy MD]

Jenks had lost his home and most all of his possessions in the Palisades fire. He had run through his savings and was signing baseballs to pay for medical treatments.

Being a closer on a championship team is always a timeless calling card, but he closed out a 1-0 deciding game to break a century-long drought for an organization that was believed by many (if only passingly so) to be cursed, with a future president and future pope rooting him on.

Not bad for a waiver claim.

[YOUTUBE]EjyGihTlFp8[/YOUTUBE]

[ashie62]

Very sad

[Cowtipper]

Who was Billy Hunter?

Billy Hunter was a Major League shortstop, coach, and manager who played six seasons from 1953 to 1958. He debuted with the St. Louis Browns and was their starting shortstop in their final season before they became the Baltimore Orioles. That year, he made the All-Star team and hit the Browns' final home run. After one season with the Orioles, he was traded to the Yankees in a blockbuster deal. Though mostly a reserve the rest of his career, he was part of the Yankees' 1956 World Series-winning roster. He also played for the Kansas City Athletics and the Cleveland Indians, finishing with a .219 batting average.

After retiring as a player, Hunter coached for the Orioles from 1964 to 1977, including their championship seasons in 1966 and 1970. In 1977, he became manager of the Texas Rangers and led them to a strong finish that year, though he was fired in 1978 after internal conflict. He later served as head baseball coach and athletic director at Towson State University, helping elevate their athletic programs.

At the time of his death in July 2025 at age 97, Hunter was the last living player from both the St. Louis Browns and the inaugural 1954 Orioles. He was inducted into the Orioles Hall of Fame in 1996 and the Towson Hall of Fame in 1998.

Who was Bobby Jenks?

Bobby Jenks (1981–2025) was a hard-throwing MLB relief pitcher best known for closing games during the Chicago White Sox’s 2005 World Series championship run. A two-time All-Star, Jenks also set a then-record by retiring 41 consecutive batters in 2007.

Originally drafted by the Anaheim Angels in 2000, Jenks struggled with injuries, control problems, and personal issues, including alcohol use, leading the Angels to cut ties with him. The White Sox claimed him in 2004, and he debuted in 2005, quickly becoming a key bullpen arm. He made the final out in Game 4 of the World Series, securing the White Sox’s first title since 1917.

After several productive seasons in Chicago, Jenks signed with the Boston Red Sox in 2011, but his career was derailed by serious spinal problems. A botched back surgery led to life-threatening complications, multiple additional procedures, and forced retirement. He later sued and won a malpractice case related to the surgery.

Post-retirement, Jenks became a successful minor league coach and manager. He also opened up about his battles with addiction, mental health, and redemption—maintaining long-term sobriety and mentoring young players.

In 2025, while managing in the Frontier League, Jenks revealed he was battling stage 4 stomach cancer. He died on July 4, 2025, at age 44 in Portugal. The White Sox planned to honor him during the 20th anniversary celebration of their 2005 title. Jenks is remembered as a flawed but fierce competitor whose life was marked by turbulence, triumph, and transformation.

[Cowtipper]

Joe Coleman died.

https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/tigers-all-star-first-draft-pick-appear-mlb-game-passes-away-2097007

Who was Joe Coleman?

Joseph Howard Coleman was a Major League Baseball pitcher whose 15-year career (1965–1979) spanned seven teams, most notably the Detroit Tigers. A right-handed fireballer known for his fast pace and live arm, Coleman was a two-time 20-game winner and an American League All-Star in 1972. He was originally the third overall pick in MLB's inaugural amateur draft in 1965 and became the first drafted player to reach the majors.

Coleman broke in with the Washington Senators at just 18 years old, later becoming a core part of Detroit’s rotation following the blockbuster 1970 trade for Denny McLain. Between 1971 and 1973, he won 62 games, struck out over 200 batters each season, and helped Detroit to the ALCS in 1972, throwing a record-setting 14-strikeout shutout in Game 3.

His career included stints with the Cubs, Athletics, Blue Jays, Giants, and Pirates, finishing with a 142–135 record, 1,728 strikeouts, and a 3.70 ERA. Though he didn’t pitch in the postseason, he was part of the 1979 World Series champion Pirates.

After retiring, Coleman had a long coaching career at both minor and major league levels, including roles with the Angels, Cardinals, Rays, Tigers, and Marlins organizations. He also made baseball history as part of MLB's first three-generation pitching family, following in the footsteps of his father, Joe Sr., and fathering Casey Coleman, who pitched in the majors in the 2010s.

Coleman passed away at age 78 in Jamestown, Tennessee, on July 9, 2025.

Lee Elia died.

https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/45711822/lee-elia-manager-cubs-phillies-dies-87

Who was Lee Elia?

Lee Constantine Elia (1937–2025) was a lifelong baseball man whose career spanned over five decades as a player, manager, coach, and executive in Major League Baseball (MLB). Born in Philadelphia to Albanian immigrant parents, Elia was a multi-sport athlete who chose baseball after a football injury in college.

As a player, Elia had brief stints in the MLB with the Chicago White Sox (1966) and Chicago Cubs (1968), compiling a modest career batting average of .203 over 95 games. After retiring as a player, he found his true calling in coaching and management.

He began managing in the minors in 1975 and rose through the Philadelphia Phillies' farm system, ultimately managing the Phillies (1987–88) and the Cubs (1982–83) at the major league level. His MLB managerial record stood at 238–300 (.442). Elia also served as a coach for several major league teams, including the Phillies, Yankees, Mariners, Blue Jays, Devil Rays, and Orioles. He earned a World Series ring with the 1980 Phillies.

Elia is perhaps most famously remembered for a profanity-laced tirade against Cubs fans in 1983, a moment that cemented his reputation for passionate defense of his players.

Beyond the dugout, Elia held scouting and executive roles later in life, serving as a special assistant with both the Dodgers and Braves. Known for his loyalty, intensity, and baseball mind, he mentored players and contributed to player development well into his seventies.

He passed away in Odessa, Florida, on July 9, 2025, just shy of his 88th birthday, leaving behind a legacy as a fiery and deeply committed figure in American baseball.

[Johnny Lunchbucket]

RIP Lee

[YOUTUBE]uiVVbYK9HXw[/YOUTUBE]

[Cowtipper]

Jim Clancy died.

https://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/article/longtime-toronto-blue-jays-pitcher-jim-clancy-dies-at-69-201559219.html

Who was Jim Clancy?

James Clancy (1955–2025) was an American Major League Baseball pitcher best known for his 12 seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays, where he was a foundational arm during the franchise’s early years. Drafted by the Texas Rangers in 1974, Clancy was later selected by the Blue Jays in the 1976 expansion draft. He made his MLB debut in 1977 and quickly became a rotation mainstay, known for his durability and workhorse mentality. His best season came in 1982, when he led the league in starts, posted a 16–14 record, and was named an All-Star. Though inconsistent at times, Clancy recorded eight double-digit win seasons, pitched over 200 innings six times, and ranks among Toronto’s all-time leaders in wins, innings, and losses.

After leaving Toronto following the 1988 season, Clancy signed with the Houston Astros, where he struggled before transitioning to a bullpen role. In 1991, he was traded to the Atlanta Braves, where he contributed to their National League pennant run and earned a win in the World Series. Clancy retired in 1992 after a brief stint with the Cubs in spring training. He passed away on July 12, 2025, at the age of 69.

Jeff Bittiger died.

https://nypost.com/2025/07/20/sports/jeff-bittiger-former-mets-draft-pick-and-mlb-pitcher-dead-at-63/

Who was Jeff Bittiger?

Jeffrey Scott Bittiger (1962–2025) was an American professional baseball pitcher who played four seasons in Major League Baseball from 1986 to 1989, appearing with the Philadelphia Phillies, Minnesota Twins, and Chicago White Sox. A New Jersey native, Bittiger was drafted out of Secaucus High School by the New York Mets in 1980. Originally a third baseman, he transitioned to pitching in 1981 and helped lead the Mets’ AAA affiliate to a championship in 1983. After years in the minors, he debuted in the majors with the Phillies in 1986, famously hitting a home run and earning his first win in the same game.

He later joined the Twins in 1987, pitching briefly during their championship season, and had his most active big league year with the White Sox in 1988, appearing in 25 games. After a short stint with the Dodgers organization, he continued to pitch in the minors until 1996, finishing with a career minor league record of 193–115. After retiring as a player, Bittiger worked as a scout for the Oakland Athletics and a consultant for the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks. He died on July 19, 2025, at the age of 63.

Otis Thornton died.

https://www.robertsfuneralservices.com/obituary/mr-otis-thornton-jr

Who was Otis Thornton?

Otis Benjamin Thornton (1945–2025) was an American professional baseball catcher who played a single day in Major League Baseball, appearing in both games of a doubleheader for the Houston Astros on July 6, 1973, against the Montreal Expos at Jarry Park. Selected in the 68th round of the 1965 MLB draft, Thornton spent years in the Astros’ minor league system before his brief appearance in the majors. During his lone day at the big-league level, he went 0-for-3 with one RBI, making him one of the few players whose entire MLB career took place outside the United States. Thornton passed away in 2025 at the age of 79.

[Cowtipper]

Who was Bill Denehy?

Bill Denehy was a right-handed pitcher from Middletown, Connecticut, who debuted with the New York Mets in 1967. Signed out of high school for $20,000, he quickly rose through the minors and made headlines by striking out nine batters in his first MLB game, tying a debut record set by Tom Seaver just days earlier. Despite early promise, Denehy’s major league career was brief, going 1–10 with a 4.56 ERA over 49 appearances. His most notable moment came off the field, when he was traded to the Washington Senators in exchange for manager Gil Hodges—a move that would help propel the Mets to their 1969 World Series title. After brief stints with the Senators and Tigers, Denehy transitioned to coaching, including a controversial term as head coach at the University of Hartford. Later in life, he battled blindness and financial hardship, relying on baseball charity grants due to being ineligible for a pension. Remembered fondly by fans and former players alike, Denehy’s legacy includes both his unique place in Mets history and his contributions to the game as a coach and mentor. He passed away in Orlando in 2025 at age 79.

[Frayed Knot]

Ryne Sandberg - 65

He had dealt with cancer off and on in recent years.

[Edgy MD]

Wow, that is terrible.

We also failed to give proper honor to Jeff Bittiger, perennial Mets prospect who had to go to another team to break through because Gooden/Darling/Fernandez/Aguilera/etc. all flew into the system and whizzed past him.

Jeff was one hell of a lifer, spending the last nine years of his career pitching in The Northern League.

[TransMonk]

First player I ever loved. Damn.

[Frayed Knot]

This one seems appropriate right about now.

[YOUTUBE]7xBxZGQ1dJk[/YOUTUBE]

[Cowtipper]

It seems like someone turned the faucet on full blast these past few years and now '80s and early '90s guys are dying left and right.

[Edgy MD]

The 1984 game featuring game-tying homers in both the ninth and the tenth, both by Sandberg, both off of Bruce Sutter, leading to a walkoff Cubs in in the eleventh, leading Whitey Herzog to call Sandberg the best player he'd ever seen.

[FIMG=550]https://daily.whatfinger.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/CTC-L-Chicago-Cubs-Sandb-10_198138210-1024x683.jpg[/FIMG]

[Benjamin Grimm]

The touches of blue on the statue are interesting.

[The Hot Corner]

I was in graduate school and living on Chicago's south side (near Comiskey Park) when Ryne Sandberg became the Cubs third baseman. I was a die hard Mets fan, but in the days before internet and cable TV (at least in Chicago) I watched a lot of Cubs games on WGN. This was in the days before lights in Wrigley Field. So my friends (classmates) and I would carry an old 21" colored TV on "rabbit ears" downstairs and set it in the shade of the small back yard. We would sit on lawn chairs in the sun with a cooler of beer and watch the Cubs game. Several of my friends were lifelong Cubs fans, but my Mets fandom made pulling for the Cubs seem wrong.* Ryne Sandberg, however, was easy to pull for. There was something in the way he played the game and carried himself. Though I never really rooted for the Cubs, I always pulled for Sandberg, as long as they weren't playing the Mets. He always seemed like a good guy that maximized his potential and got the most out of his abilities.

Thanks for the memories Ryne and rest in peace.

*I did adopt the White Sox as my "second team"

[Cowtipper]

Who was Ryne Sandberg?

Ryne "Ryno" Sandberg was a rare blend of skill, humility, and consistency, embodying everything fans love about baseball. Born in Spokane in 1959 and named after pitcher Ryne Duren, Sandberg bypassed a promising football career to join the Philadelphia Phillies after being drafted in 1978. But it was a 1982 trade to the Chicago Cubs—once considered a mere throw-in—that changed the course of both his life and Cubs history. Initially overlooked, he exploded onto the national stage in 1984 with a legendary two-homer game against Hall of Famer Bruce Sutter, now known simply as "The Sandberg Game."

Sandberg’s career was marked by quiet excellence. A 10-time All-Star, nine-time Gold Glove winner, and seven-time Silver Slugger at second base, he led the league in home runs in 1990 with 40—a rare feat for his position. He collected over 2,300 hits, stole 344 bases, and retired with a .989 fielding percentage, a record at the time. Despite a brief mid-career retirement in 1994, he returned for two more seasons before hanging it up in 1997.

Elected to the Hall of Fame in 2005 after three tries, Sandberg used his induction speech to advocate for baseball played "the right way"—with discipline, defense, and dignity. The Cubs retired his #23 that same year, and later honored him with a statue outside Wrigley Field in 2024. His post-playing years included managing stints in both the Cubs and Phillies organizations, briefly managing the Phillies from 2013 to 2015. Though his managerial record was modest, his baseball reputation remained untarnished.

Personally, Sandberg lived a relatively private life. He was married twice, raised a family, and helped launch Ryno Kid Care, a now-closed foundation aiding children with serious illnesses. In January 2024, he revealed a battle with metastatic prostate cancer. After briefly being declared cancer-free, the disease returned and claimed his life on July 28, 2025, at age 65.

A complete player, a gentleman of the game, and an enduring symbol of Chicago baseball, Ryne Sandberg's legacy lives on not just in stats and awards, but in the hearts of Cubs fans and all who admired his quiet greatness.

Other notable non-MLB player 2025 passings...

Jack Bloomfield died.

https://www.kreidlerfuneralhome.com/obituaries/gordon-leigh-jack-bloomfield/

Who was Jack Bloomfield?

Jack Bloomfield's baseball career defied convention and spanned continents. Born in Monte Alto, Texas, in 1930, he began as a promising infielder in the U.S. minor leagues, briefly flashing brilliance with a .310 average in 1955 and .309 with Seattle in 1958. But when his American career stalled, Bloomfield took an unconventional leap to Japan—and thrived.

Joining the Kintetsu Buffaloes in 1960, he quickly became a star. Over seven seasons in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), Bloomfield hit .315 with 61 home runs and earned back-to-back Pacific League batting titles in 1962 and 1963. Known for both contact hitting and surprising power, he also brought a fiery edge—famously storming into the stands in 1961 to punch a heckling fan, an incident that remains one of the most notorious in NPB history.

After retiring as a player in 1966, Bloomfield returned to the U.S. and stayed in the game as a scout and coach. He coached in the majors for the Padres and Cubs during the 1970s and later scouted for several teams, including the Yankees, Rockies, and Astros. In recognition of his contributions to the game, he was inducted into the Rio Grande Valley Sports Hall of Fame and the Texas Scouts Association Hall of Fame.

Bloomfield passed away on July 28, 2025, at age 94—a bridge between eras, cultures, and the many facets of professional baseball.

Chris Ballingall died.

https://obits.mlive.com/us/obituaries/kalamazoo/name/christina-ballingall-obituary?id=58392681

Who was Chris Ballingall?

Chris Ballingall was a standout catcher in the final days of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, known for her power at the plate and gritty backstory. Born in Ann Arbor, Michigan in 1932, she learned to catch from her twin brother and was first offered a pro contract at just 15—but her father said no. It wasn’t until 1953 that she finally broke into the league with the Muskegon Belles, later joining the Kalamazoo Lassies. In her two-season career, she batted .218 with 18 home runs and helped lead the Lassies to a championship in 1954, hitting a blazing .444 in the playoffs with a grand slam. She and teammate Carol Habben became known as the “Home Run Twins,” rattling pitchers with their unexpected power. Ballingall died in 2025 at age 92, having lived to see herself remembered as part of a pioneering era for women in baseball.

Adam Burton died.

https://7news.com.au/sport/olympics/tributes-flow-after-shock-death-of-australian-baseball-legend-adam-burton-aged-53-c-18690910

Who was Adam Burton?

Adam Burton’s baseball journey began in Melbourne and took him from Australian diamonds to Olympic fields and American minor leagues. A scrappy infielder with a right-handed bat, he first made waves as a teenager, helping the Australian junior team win bronze at the World Youth Series. Though his early U.S. minor league stint was short-lived—possibly due to attitude issues despite strong stats—Burton became a force in the Australian Baseball League. Known for his blend of power, speed, and on-base savvy, he earned multiple All-Star selections and became the ABL’s only two-time batting champion. His 1997–98 season with the Melbourne Reds was electric: 21 homers, 66 runs, and a .388 average in just 50 games. Internationally, he was a key part of Australia’s upset win over Cuba at the 1999 Intercontinental Cup and starred again in the 2000 Olympics and 2001 Baseball World Cup. Across 11 seasons, Burton batted .312 with elite slugging and stolen base efficiency, becoming one of the most statistically dominant players in Australian baseball history. He died suddenly in 2025 at age 53, remembered as both a trailblazer and a fan favorite.

Marty DeMerritt died.

Who was Marty DeMerritt?

Marty “Mad Dog” DeMerritt carved out one of the most colorful and committed coaching careers in professional baseball, despite a playing career cut short by injury. Drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in 1971, he spent eight seasons in the minors before retiring at 25 due to arm trouble. In the years between pitching and coaching, he worked in construction—and briefly as a bounty hunter, repossessing stolen goods and cars in California. But DeMerritt’s real calling was on the mound, shaping pitchers, not just throwing.

He launched his coaching career with the San Francisco Giants organization in 1983, and by 1989 was on the staff during their World Series run. He made history the following year as the first American pitching coach in Korea with the Samsung Lions. Over the next three decades, he bounced between MLB and minor league systems, most notably with the Cubs in 1999 and later spending over 20 years as a beloved instructor in the Tampa Bay Rays’ farm system.

Known for his old-school toughness, devotion to player development, and a personality as intense as his nickname suggested, DeMerritt left an imprint on pitchers across multiple continents and generations. He passed away in 2025 at age 71, remembered as a coach who mixed grit with heart and brought out the best in his players, from Arizona to Venezuela and everywhere in between.

Larry Dolan died.

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6156901/2025/02/24/cleveland-guardians-owner-larry-dolan-dies/?

Who was Larry Dolan?

Larry Dolan, who died in 2025 at the age of 94, was a Cleveland native, Marine Corps officer, attorney, and the longtime owner of the Cleveland Guardians baseball team. A graduate of St. Ignatius High School and the University of Notre Dame Law School, Dolan built a successful legal career before purchasing the then-Cleveland Indians for \$323 million in 2000. Though not the highest-spending owner, he remained deeply invested in the team’s success and culture, attending spring training, meeting fans, and dining with players and coaches. Under his ownership, the team saw postseason highs—including a trip to the 2016 World Series—and leaner years that fueled debate among fans about his frugal reputation.

Outside of baseball, Dolan founded the legal firm Thrasher, Dinsmore & Dolan and launched the regional sports network SportsTime Ohio, later sold to Fox. His commitment to Cleveland sports extended to his family: while his son Paul took over as team chairman and CEO, another son, Matt, built a career in Ohio politics and economic development. The Dolans were honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Greater Cleveland Sports Association in 2019, recognizing their enduring impact on the city’s sports scene. Larry Dolan’s legacy bridges civic pride, cautious stewardship, and a deep love for the game.

Betsy Jochum died.

https://www.southbendtribune.com/story/news/local/2025/06/02/betsy-sockum-jochum-of-all-american-girls-professional-baseball-league-dies-at-104/84000250007/

Who was Betsy Jochum?

Betsy Jochum, affectionately nicknamed "Sockum," was one of the original stars of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, playing six seasons with the South Bend Blue Sox from 1943 to 1948. A right-handed outfielder who later converted to pitcher, she quickly made her mark in the league’s inaugural season by leading in hits (120) and doubles (12), and followed up by claiming the batting title in 1944 with a .296 average and 128 hits. In her final season, she took the mound and compiled a 14-13 pitching record. Across her career, Jochum appeared in 654 games, hitting .246 with 7 home runs. After retiring from the diamond, she spent 25 years as a teacher in South Bend, Indiana. When she passed away in 2025 at the age of 104, she held the distinction of being the oldest living former AAGPBL player—a quiet pioneer whose longevity mirrored her steady presence in the early days of women’s professional baseball.

Itch Jones died.

https://fightingillini.com/news/2025/2/17/legendary-illini-baseball-coach-itch-jones-passes-away.aspx

Who was Itch Jones?

Nicknamed for a childhood cast that made him “itch” enough to earn the lifelong moniker, Richard “Itch” Jones spent more than four decades shaping college baseball into a proving ground for future stars. Born in Herrin, Illinois, in 1938, Jones had a modest minor league career before diving headfirst into coaching. What followed was a legendary run: first at MacMurray College, then as head coach at Southern Illinois University (1970–1990), and finally at the University of Illinois (1991–2005). His teams reached three College World Series, and he mentored 20 future Major Leaguers, including Dave Stieb, Steve Finley, and Scott Spiezio.

Jones amassed 1,240 wins, ranking among the top 15 winningest coaches in NCAA Division I history at the time of his retirement. Twice named national coach of the year, he also claimed multiple conference titles and was enshrined in numerous halls of fame. His influence was so enduring that SIU’s baseball stadium was named in his honor in 2014. A cancer survivor and dedicated family man, Jones passed away in 2025 from Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease, just two days after his 87th birthday. His legacy lives on in every ballplayer who called him “Coach.”

Bill Mercer died.

https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/bill-mercer-voice-world-class-championship-wrestling-broadcast-journalist-dies/287-249da7c3-99b7-45d7-a300-35940ab03177

Who was Bill Mercer?

Bill Mercer’s voice was a fixture of American sports for over six decades, spanning baseball, football, basketball, and wrestling. Born in 1926 in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Mercer served in the U.S. Navy during World War II before pursuing a broadcasting career fueled by a degree from the University of Denver. Starting in minor league baseball and local Dallas-Fort Worth sports, he became best known as the play-by-play announcer for the Texas Rangers during their inaugural 1972 season and later worked with the Chicago White Sox. Beyond sports, Mercer’s steady reporting during the tragic 1963 JFK assassination placed him at the heart of a pivotal moment in American history, a story he recounted in his book *When the News Went Live*. He also had a significant impact on professional wrestling broadcasts, especially with Dallas-based World Class Championship Wrestling in the 1980s.

Mercer was a respected educator, teaching generations of broadcasters at the University of North Texas, and his legacy continues through his granddaughter, who is also a baseball announcer. Inducted into multiple halls of fame, including the Texas Radio Hall of Fame, Mercer’s career was marked by versatility, longevity, and a calm professionalism that guided listeners through thrilling sports moments and historic news events alike. He passed away in 2025 at the age of 99, leaving behind a rich tapestry of broadcast history and mentorship.

[Cowtipper]

Felix Torres died.

https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/former-angels-third-baseman-passes-away-2111048

Who was Felix Torres?

Félix Torres Sánchez (May 1, 1932 – August 8, 2025) was a Puerto Rican professional baseball player who served as the Los Angeles Angels’ regular third baseman from 1962 to 1964. Signed by the Cincinnati Redlegs in 1955, he spent several years in the minors, briefly left organized baseball, and later returned via stints in the Cincinnati and Philadelphia farm systems. Selected by the Angels in the 1961 Rule 5 Draft, Torres debuted in the majors at nearly 30 years old.

In his rookie season (1962), he hit 11 home runs with 74 RBIs, following it with a career-best batting average (.261) and 32 doubles in 1963, and a personal-high 12 home runs in 1964. Before reaching MLB, Torres starred in the 1960 Caribbean Series, tying for the home run lead. Known for his power and resilience, he navigated cultural and language barriers, racial prejudice in the American South, and a late start to his big-league career.

Torres retired after the 1964 season and passed away in Santa Isabel, Puerto Rico, at age 93.

Other deaths of note:

Shigeo Nagashima died.

https://japantoday.com/category/sports/Japanese-baseball-legend-Shigeo-Nagashima-dies-at-89

Who was Shigeo Nagashima?

Shigeo Nagashima (1936–2025), nicknamed “Mr. Giants” and “Mr. Pro Baseball,” was one of Japan’s most celebrated athletes and cultural icons. A star third baseman for the Yomiuri Giants from 1958 to 1974, he formed the legendary “ON Cannon” duo with Sadaharu Oh, leading the team to an unprecedented nine consecutive Japan Series championships (1965–1973). Known for both his natural talent and relentless work ethic, Nagashima won five Central League MVP awards, six batting titles, and was named to the Best Nine every year of his 17-season career. His lifetime statistics included a .305 batting average, 2,471 hits, 444 home runs, and 1,522 RBIs.

After retiring as a player, Nagashima managed the Giants in two stints (1975–1980, 1993–2001), capturing Central League pennants in 1976, 1977, 1994, 1996, and 2000, and Japan Series titles in 1994 and 2000. He also led Japan to victory in the 2003 Asian Championship before a stroke in 2004 sidelined him from the Athens Olympics.

Beyond the field, Nagashima was a national figure on par with postwar cultural icons like Hibari Misora, admired for his charisma, good looks, and devotion to the game. His jersey number 3 was retired by the Giants, and he received Japan’s People’s Honour Award (2013) and Order of Culture (2021). He died of pneumonia in 2025 at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy as perhaps the most beloved player in Japanese baseball history.

Enos Semore died.

https://soonersports.com/news/2025/2/23/remembering-legendary-baseball-coach-enos-semore

Who was Enos Semore?

Enos Semore (April 28, 1931 – February 23, 2025) was a highly successful American college baseball coach best known for his 22-year tenure at the University of Oklahoma. A native of Haskell County, Oklahoma, Semore excelled in baseball and basketball at Northeastern State University before serving in the Army and embarking on a coaching career. He led Bacone Junior College from 1963 to 1967, capturing the 1967 NJCAA Baseball World Series title, then moved to Oklahoma, where his Sooners teams won 851 games, seven Big Eight Conference championships, and made five consecutive College World Series appearances in the 1970s. Known for his consistent winning record and ability to develop talent, Semore resigned shortly before the 1990 season for health reasons. He died at age 93 in Noble, Oklahoma, leaving a legacy as one of the most accomplished coaches in college baseball history.

J.C. Snead died.

https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/latest/2025/04/26/jc-snead-dies-at-age-84-complications-from-cancer

Who was J.C. Snead?

Jesse Carlyle "J.C." Snead (1940–2025) was an American professional golfer known for his consistency on the PGA Tour and Champions Tour, with 16 professional wins including eight PGA Tour titles and one senior major championship. Born in Hot Springs, Virginia, he initially pursued a baseball career in the Washington Senators' minor league system before turning to golf in 1964. He was the nephew of legendary golfer Sam Snead. J.C. Snead played on three winning Ryder Cup teams in the 1970s and had notable near-misses in major championships, finishing second at the 1973 Masters and tied for second at the 1978 U.S. Open. During his senior career, he won four tournaments including the 1995 Ford Senior Players Championship, famously defeating Jack Nicklaus in a playoff. Known for his steady play and career earnings over seven million dollars, he was inducted into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame in 2003. Snead enjoyed hunting and farming outside of golf and lived primarily in Hot Springs, Virginia. He passed away from cancer at age 84 in 2025.