Necrology

Dick Allen was born March 8, 1942, in Wampum, Penn. and made his major league debut Sept. 3, 1963, with the Philadelphia Phillies. Allen played 15 years in the big leagues, playing for the Phillies, St Louis Cardinals, Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago White Sox and the Oakland Athletics. He ended his successful playing career as the 1964 NL Rookie of the Year, 1972 AL Most Valuable Player, and a seven-time All-Star. Allen passed away Dec. 7, 2020, in Wampum, Penn.

Johnny Antonelli was born April 12, 1930, in Rochester, N.Y. and made his major league debut with the Boston Braves on July 4, 1948. After three seasons in the majors, Antonelli was drafted into the military and missed two years of playing due to the Korean War. After returning to the majors in 1953, Antonelli continued his career, splitting time between the Milwaukee Braves, New York Giants, San Francisco Giants and Cleveland Indians. Antonelli concluded his 12-year major league career as a six-time All-Star, World Series champion with the New York Giants and ERA Title holder in 1954. Antonelli passed away Feb. 28, 2020, in Rochester, N.Y.

Ramón Avilés was born Jan. 22, 1952, in Manati, Puerto Rico and made his debut July 10, 1977, with the Boston Red Sox. After his four-year major league career as an infielder, Aviles became a manager, spending most of his time in the Phillies organization. Aviles passed away at age 72 on Jan. 27, 2020, in Manati, Puerto Rico.

Rick Baldwin was born June 1, 1953, in Fresno, Calif. and made his major league debut April 10, 1975, with the New York Mets. Baldwin spent three seasons in the big leagues, all three spent with the Mets. He passed away Oct. 30, 2020, in Modesto, Calif.

Kim Batiste was born March 15, 1968, in New Orleans, La. and made his major league debut Sept. 8, 1991, with the Philadelphia Phillies. Batiste had five seasons in the big leagues, with his most notable year being with the Phillies in 1993 – hitting .282/.298/.436 in 79 games. Batiste passed away in his home state of Louisiana due to complications from an emergency kidney surgery Oct. 7, 2020.

Glenn Beckert was born Oct. 12, 1940, in Pittsburgh, Penn. and made his major league debut April 12, 1965, with the Chicago Cubs. Being the Cubs regular second baseman for almost a decade, Beckert ended his major league career as a four-time All-Star, Gold Glove winner and NL Runs Scored Leader. After retiring from baseball, Beckert became a commodities trader at the Chicago Board of Trade. Beckert passed away April 12, 2020.

Julio Becquer was born Dec. 20, 1931, in La Habana, Cuba and made his major league debut Sept. 13, 1955, with the Washington Senators. He played seven seasons in the big leagues and was best known as a pinch hitter, leading the American League twice in pinch hits. After his playing days, Becquer worked for a department store chain for 30 years, then became a goodwill ambassador for the Minnesota Twins. He was honored by the Twins for his community service in 2016, participating in hundreds of baseball clinics set up by the organization. Becquer passed away Nov. 1, 2020, in Hopkins, Minn.

Jim Bolger was born Feb. 23, 1932, in Cincinnati, Ohio and made his major league debut June 24, 1950, with the Cincinnati Reds, becoming the 1,000th player to wear the Reds uniform. After splitting his time between several different squads, Bolger retired and resided in Cincinnati. He became an office manager for Minute Men Staffing Services. Bolger passed away April 9, 2020.

Frank Bolling was born Nov. 16, 1931, in Mobile Ala. and made his major league debut April 13, 1954, with the Detroit Tigers. During his 12-year playing career, Bolling made two All-Star appearances in 1961 and 1962, and won the AL Gold Glove in 1958. The same year as winning the Gold Glove, Bolling formed a double play with his brother Milt Bolling. After retiring from the game, Bolling returned to his hometown of Mobile, Ala. where he started a baseball league for physically or mentally challenged youth, named the Frank Bolling Adaptive Baseball League. Bolling passed away July 11, 2020, in Mobile, Ala.

Lou Brock was born June 18, 1939, in El Dorado, Ark. and made his major league debut Sept. 10, 1961, as a member of the Chicago Cubs. After a major trade to the St. Louis Cardinals halfway through the 1964 season, Brock ended up being a key player for the Cardinals for the rest of his playing career. Reaching the Fall Classic three times, he assisted the Cardinals to two World Series Championship wins. Known for his extreme baserunning skills, Brock held the record for career stolen bases for a matter of time, with 938. His 19 years in the game, ended with six All-Star appearances, a Major League Player of the Year Award, the 1967 Babe Ruth Award, 1975 Roberto Clemente Award, and an induction into the legendary Baseball Hall of Fame in 1985 – just to name a few. A forever Cardinal, Brock passed away Sept. 6, 2020, at age 81.

Oscar Brown was born Feb. 8, 1946, in Long Beach, Calif. and made his major league debut Sept. 3, 1969, with the Atlanta Braves. Brown spent five years in the big leagues, playing 160 games all with the Atlanta Braves. His most notable year being 1972 when he appeared in 76 games, hitting .226/.244/.323. Brown passed away June 3, 2020.

Tyson Brummett was born Aug. 15, 1984, in Columbus, Miss and made his major league debut Oct. 3, 2012, with the Philadelphia Phillies. Brummett had a brief career in the big leagues, playing in one game for the Phillies. Brummett passed away July 3, 2020, due to a tragic plane crash. He was the pilot of the small plane, crashing in a remote part of American Fork Canyon in Utah.

Foster Castleman was born Jan. 1, 1931, in Nashville, Tenn. and made his major league debut on August 4, 1954 with the New York Giants. Castleman spent five years in the big leagues with the Giants and the Baltimore Orioles. Castleman spent his time as the Giants regular third baseman during the 1958 season. Before his major league breakthrough, he served in the Navy for two years, missing the 1951 and 1952 seasons. He entered the real estate business after his baseball career. Castleman passed away Nov. 9, 2020, in The Villages, Fla.

Horace Clarke was born June 2, 1939, in Frederiksted, U.S. Virgin Islands and made his major league debut May 13, 1965, with the New York Yankees. Clarke was the fifth player from the Virgin Islands to play in Major League Baseball. In two seasons, he led the American League in at bats twice, scoring more than 80 runs. Clarke also broke up three no-hitters in the ninth inning in 1970. After his playing days, Clarke became a government-paid instructor in local baseball programs on St. Croix. Clarke passed away Aug. 5, 2020.

Gil Coan was born May 18, 1922, in Monroe, N.C. and made his major league debut April 27, 1946, with the Washington Senators. Coan was named Minor League Player of the Year after hitting .372 with 16 home runs for the Chattanooga Lookouts. When called up by the Senators, he collected 21 hits in 42 at-bats for a .500 average. After his playing career, Coan entered the insurance industry working at his family-owned business - the Brevard Insurance Agency. Coan passed away Feb. 4, 2020, in Hendersonville, N.C.

Ramon Conde was born Dec. 29, 1934, in Juana Diaz, Puerto Rico and made his major league debut with the Chicago White Sox on July 17, 1962. Conde ended his U.S. playing career within the Cincinnati Reds organization. After his playing career, Conde became a coach and executive in the Puerto Rican Winter League. Conde also managed the Plataneros de Tabasco in 1981, the Wytheville Cubs in 1985 and the Union Laguna Cotton Dealers in 1986 before later retiring in Puerto Rico. Conde passed away Feb. 23, 2020, in West Palm Beach, Fla.

Ted Cox was born Jan. 24, 1955, in Oklahoma City, Okla. and made his major league debut with the Boston Red Sox on Sept. 18, 1977. To this day Cox still owns the record for most consecutive hits to start a career with six hits in his first six at bats, as well as most consecutive times getting on base to start a career with seven. Cox passed away March 11, 2020.

Ray Daviault was born May 27, 1934, in Montreal, Canada and made his major league debut April 13, 1962, with the New York Mets. Daviault spent one year in the big leagues with the Mets. He passed away Nov. 6, 2020, in Notre-Dame-de-la-Merci, QC Canada.

Billy DeMars was born Aug. 26, 1925, in Brooklyn, N.Y. and made his major league debut May 18, 1948, with the Philadelphia Athletics. DeMars played three years in the big leagues, spent with the Athletics and the St. Louis Browns but missed the 1944 and 1945 seasons due to military service. After his playing days, DeMars managed in the Baltimore Orioles system (1958 -1968), coached for the Philadelphia Phillies (1969-1981), as well as the Montreal Expos (1982-1984) and the Cincinnati Reds (1985-1987). DeMars passed away Dec. 10, 2020, in Clearwater, Fla.

Jim Derrington was born Nov. 29, 1939, in Compton Calif. and made his major league debut Sept. 30, 1956, with the Chicago White Sox. Near the end of the 1956 season, Derrington started for the White Sox at age 16, becoming the youngest pitcher to start a game. After a serious arm injury ended his playing career, Derrington switched careers and ran a TV/appliance store, as well as managed a produce business and brokered product. He also coached and managed in independent ball from 1995 on. Derrington passed away March 12, 2020, in Pomona, Calif.

Adrian Devine was born Dec. 2, 1951, in Galveston, Texas and made his major league debut June 27, 1973, with the Atlanta Braves. Devine pitched seven seasons in the big leagues with the Atlanta Braves and the Texas Rangers. His most notable year being in 1977, when he posted 15 saves and 11 wins with the Rangers – who finished second in their division that year. Devine passed away June 27 2020, after a long fight with cancer.

Paul Doyle was born Oct. 2, 1939, in Philadelphia, Penn. and made his major league debut with the Atlanta Braves on May 28, 1969. Doyle pitched three years in the big leagues, splitting time between the Atlanta Braves, California Angels and the San Diego Padres. Doyle passed away May 6, 2020.

Hal Dues was born Sept. 22, 1954, in La Marque, Texas and made his major league debut Sept. 9, 1977, with the Montreal Expos. Dues pitched three years in the big leagues, all spent with the Expos but his career was cut short due to suffering from several arm injuries. After his playing days, Dues ran a bar, became a beer and wine sales rep, and had a Pepperidge Farm franchise. Dues passed away Oct. 20, 2020, in Dickinson, Texas.

Angel Echevarria was born May 25, 1972, in Bridgeport, Conn., making his major league debut in 1996 with the Colorado Rockies. Primarily an outfielder, Echevarria spent seven years in the majors, splitting time between the Rockies, Milwaukee Brewers and Chicago Cubs. After his playing days concluded, Echevarria spent time as a baseball instructor in Norwalk, Conn. and frequently assisted with the MLBPAA's Legends for Youth clinics. Echevarria passed away Feb. 7, 2020, in his hometown of Bridgeport, Conn.

Narciso Elvira was born Oct. 29, 1967, in Tlalixcoyan, Mexico and made his major league debut Sept. 9, 1990, with the Milwaukee Brewers. While his time in the majors was quick, he spent 1986-2004 in the Mexican League, becoming just the second Mexican League pitcher with two no-hitters. Elvira passed away Jan. 28, 2020, in Medellin de Bravo, Veracruz Mexico.

Ed Farmer was born Oct. 18, 1949, in Evergreen Park, Ill. and made his major league debut June 9, 1971, with the Cleveland Indians. Farmer spent 11 years in the league, making the All-Star roster and recording a 30 saves season in 1980 while playing for the Chicago White Sox. At the conclusion of his playing career, Farmer was a scout for the Baltimore Orioles in 1989 and went on to become a radio broadcaster for the White Sox three years later. Farmer began color commentating and gradually added play-by-play duties between 1992 and 2005. Farmer passed away after a battle with kidney disease April 1, 2020, in Calabasas, Calif.

Tony Fernández was born June 30, 1962, in San Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic and made his major league debut Sept. 2, 1983, with the Toronto Blue Jays. Fernández ended his exceptional 17-year major league career with four Gold Glove Awards, five All-Star appearances and a 1993 World Series championship with the Blue Jays. He also led the American League in singles in 1986 and in triples in 1990. In 2008, Fernández was voted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and in 2016 he joined the Texas Rangers as a special coach. Fernández passed away Feb. 16, 2020, in Weston, Fla.

Ed Fitz Gerald was born May 21, 1924 in Santa Ynez, Calif. and made his major league debut April 19, 1948, with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Before his 12 years in the big leagues, Fitz Gerald was drafted into the Army in 1943, ending his college career at Saint Mary’s College of California. His time in Major League Baseball was split between the Pirates, Washington Senators and Cleveland Indians. After his playing days, Fitz Gerald became a coach in 1960 for the Indians, then the Athletics in 1961. He also was a member of the Twins staff from 1962-64, and managed the Fresno Giants in 1965-1966. Fitz Gerald passed away June 14, 2020.

Whitey Ford was born Oct. 21, 1928, and made his major league debut July 1, 1950, with the team he would then spend the next 16 years playing for – the New York Yankees. A dominant left-handed pitcher in the ‘50s and ‘60s, Ford is known as one of the best pitchers in franchise history, remaining one of the winningest pitchers of all time to this day. Some of his accolades include 10 All-Star appearances, six World Series Championship wins, two ERA Pitching Titles, a World Series MVP Award and a Cy Young Award - all leading him to an induction into the great Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974. Ford appeared in 11 World Series’, with a standout ERA of 2.71. He also was the Yankees' all-time strikeouts leader up until 2013. In Ford’s final season in the big leagues, he had an ERA of 1.64 before retiring and becoming a coach for the Yankees in 1968, and 1974-75. Ford passed away Oct. 8, 2020, in Lake Success, N.Y., shortly before what would have been his 92nd birthday.

Dámaso García was born Feb. 7, 1957, in Moca, Dominican Republic and made his major league debut with the New York Yankees June 24, 1978. Garcia took off in his career when starting at second base for the Blue Jays from 1980 to 1986 after being acquired from the Yankees. Garcia ended his career as a Silver Slugger Award winner in 1982, and a two-time All-Star in 1984 and 1985. After his retirement from the game, Garcia was diagnosed with a brain tumor. During his recovery, he used his talents and passion to work with children who had suffered from traumatic medical conditions, and organized several baseball camps for them. Garcia passed away April 15, 2020, in the Dominican Republic.

Bob Gibson was born Nov. 9, 1935, in Omaha Neb. and made his major league debut April 15, 1959, with the team he would spend the next 17 years with – the St. Louis Cardinals. Throughout his Hall of Fame career, Gibson collected many accolades including nine All-Star appearances, nine Gold Glove Awards, two Cy Young Awards, two World Series Championship wins, two World Series MVPs and an induction into the Hall in 1981. In Game 1 of the 1968 World Series, Gibson tossed a shutout setting a new record with 17 strikeouts. While known as a baseball star, Gibson also excelled in basketball, playing at Creighton University on a basketball scholarship. At the beginning of his professional baseball career, he took some time off to play with the Harlem Globetrotters for the 1957-58 season, then found himself back in baseball, breaking into the majors in 1959. After his long and successful playing career, Gibson became a coach spending 1981 with the New York Mets, 1982-84 with the Atlanta Braves and 1995 back with the Cardinals. Gibson passed away Oct. 2, 2020, after a fought battle with pancreatic cancer.

Bill Gilbreth was born Sept. 3, 1947, in Abilene, Texas and made his major league debut June 25, 1971, with the Detroit Tigers. In his first start in the majors, Gilbreth pitched a complete game win with the Tigers, and got two hits. His third game was a start and a win against the Yankees. As of 2020, Gilbreth is the first and only player to reach the majors from Abilene Christian College. After his time playing, he went back to his alma mater, overseeing the resurrection of the baseball program from 1991-95. In 2016 he was an accountant. Gilbreth passed away July 12, 2020, at age 72.

Larry Gowell was born May 2, 1948, in Lewiston, Maine and made his major league debut Sept. 21, 1972, with the New York Yankees. On October 4, 1972, Gowell hit a double for his first and only major league hit, and it was the last hit in the regular season by an American League pitcher before the start of the designated hitter rule. That historical ball now resides in the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y. Gowell passed away May 11, 2020.

Rich Hacker was born Oct. 6, 1947, in Belleville, Ill. and made his major league debut July 2, 1971, with the Montreal Expos. After his brief time with the Expos, Hacker switched roles and became a coach for the St. Louis Cardinals from 1986-1990, then joined the Toronto Blue Jays staff from 1991-94. Hacker passed away April 22, 2020, in Fairview Heights, Ill. from cancer complications.

Charlie Haeger was born Sept. 19, 1983, in Livonia, Mich., making his major league debut May 10, 2006, with the Chicago White Sox. Haeger spent five years in the big leagues, playing for three different franchises; the White Sox, San Diego Padres and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Haeger passed away Oct. 3, 2020, in Grand Canyon National Park.

Jay Hankins was born Nov. 7, 1935, in St. Louis County, Mo. and made his debut April 15, 1961, with the Kansas City Athletics. After his time as an outfielder in the majors ended, Hankins switched to scouting for the Cleveland Indians and then the Kansas City Royals from 1967-1974. He also managed the Kingsport Royals in 1972, then took the role of Scouting Director of the Philadelphia Phillies from 1989-1992. Hankins passed away Jan. 20, 2020.

Carroll Hardy was born May 18, 1933, in Sturgis, S.D. and made his major league debut April 15, 1958, with the Cleveland Indians. Before his baseball days, Hardy played eight games in the NFL for the San Francisco 49ers as a running back. In MLB, Hardy was the only player to pinch hit for Hall of Famer, Ted Williams. Hardy is also most notable for being the only player to break a scoreless tie with a walk-off grand slam in the 12th inning, driving in Carl Yastrzemski, Frank Malzone and Russ Nixon. He also pinch hit for Carl Yastrzemski on May 31, 1961, making him the only player to sub for future Hall of Famers Yastrzemski and Williams. Hardy passed away Aug. 9, 2020, in Highlands Ranch, Colo.

Billy Harris was born Nov. 24, 1943, in Hamlet, N.C. and made his major league debut June 16, 1968, with the Cleveland Indians. Harris played two seasons in the big leagues, splitting his time with the Indians and the Kansas City Royals. In 1969, Harris was a member of the inaugural Royals team. Harris passed away Dec. 20, 2020, in Hampstead, N.C.

Don Hasenmayer was born April 4, 1927, in Roslyn, Pa. and made his major league debut May 2, 1945, with the Philadelphia Phillies. At just 18 years old, Hasenmayer was one of the youngest players in the majors, and was the last surviving player who debuted in 1945. Hasenmayer passed away Jan. 28, 2020.

Remy Hermoso was born Oct. 1, 1947, in Puerto Cabello, Venezuela and made his major league debut Sept.14, 1967, with the Atlanta Braves. A year before entering the big leagues, Hermoso played for the Venezuelan national team in the 1966 Central American and Caribbean Games. He spent four years in Major League Baseball, splitting his playing time with the Braves, Montreal Expos and Cleveland Indians, majority of his time being with the Indians. Hermoso then served on the municipal council of Puerto Cabello, Carabobo and ran the local sports authority in his hometown. Hermoso was elected to the Venezuelan Baseball Hall of Fame in 2015, and passed away Aug. 22, 2020, in Puerto Cabello, Carabobo, Venezuela.

Jim Hicks was born May 18, 1940 in East Chicago, Ind. and made his major league debut Sept. 19, 1964, with the Chicago White Sox. Playing five seasons in the majors, Hicks played in 93 games throughout his time with the White Sox, St. Louis Cardinals and the California Angels. During his 13 years in the minor leagues, he led the 1967 Pacific Coast League in runs and was named the 1968 Pacific Coast League MVP. Hicks passed away Oct. 29, 2020.

Dick Hyde was born Aug. 3, 1928, in Hindsboro, Ill. and made his major league debut with the Washington Senators on April 23, 1955. Hyde spent his early time between the minor league and two years in the military, during the Korean War. 1958 was a big year for him, getting married and making a name for himself on the mound with the Senators. He then suffered from a heart attack and retired in the 80s. After his playing career, Hyde got his stockbroker's license and then worked for the Illinois Power Company. Hyde passed away April 15, 2020, in Champaign, Ill.

Ray Jarvis was born May 10, 1946, in Providence, R.I. and made his major league debut April 15, 1969, with the Boston Red Sox. Jarvis played two seasons with the Red Sox, after serving in the United States Military in 1966. Jarvis passed away April 24, 2020, in Austin, Texas.

Bart Johnson was born Jan. 3, 1950, in Torrance, Calif. and made his major league debut with the Chicago White Sox on Sept. 8, 1969. During the 1974 season with the White Sox, Johnson tossed back-to-back complete-game shutouts against the Cleveland Indians and Boston Red Sox. After his playing days, Johnson became a scout for the White Sox, Tampa Bay Devil Rays and the Washington Nationals. Johnson passed away April 22, 2020, in Palos Heights, Ill. after battling complications from Parkinson's disease.

Ben Johnson was born May 16, 1931, in Greenwood, S.C. and made his major league debut Sept. 6, 1959, with the Chicago Cubs. Before his pitching days with the Cubs in 1959 and 1960, Johnson served in the United States Marine Corps. After retirement from baseball, Johnson went on to work in his hometown of Greenwood, S.C. for the Monsanto Corporation. Johnson passed away May 8, 2020.

Howie Judson was born Feb. 16, 1926, in Hebron, Ill. and made his major league debut April 22, 1948, with the Chicago White Sox. Before his professional playing days, Judson spent time in the United States Navy during World War 2. Judson played seven years in the big leagues, splitting his time between the Chicago White Sox and the Cincinnati Reds. After his baseball days, he worked as the head of a shipping department in Walworth, Wis. Judson passed away Aug. 18, 2020, in Winter Haven, Fla.

Al Kaline was born Dec. 19, 1934, in Baltimore. Kaline's major league debut occurred June 25, 1953, with the Detroit Tigers and stayed with the team for the entire duration of his 22-year career. Earning the nickname "Mr. Tiger", Kaline's successes include 15 All-Star appearances, 10 Gold Glove Awards and a 1968 World Series championship. Kaline also led the American League in batting average, hits and total bases in 1955. He earned the first Roberto Clemente Award and earned his spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame on Jan. 9, 1980. After his playing career ended, Kaline joined the Tigers broadcasting team from 1976 to 2001. Kaline passed away April 6, 2020, in Bloomfield Hills, Mich.

Eddie Kasko was born June 27, 1931, in Elizabeth, NJ. and made his major league debut April 18 1957, with the St. Louis Cardinals. Kasko spent 10 years in the big leagues, making two All-Star appearances with the Cincinnati Reds. Kasko became the Red Sox scouting director from 1978-1991, then the director of player development from 1992 to 1995. Kasko is also known for serving two years with the United States Army Combat Engineers during the Korean War from 1952-54. Kasko passed away June 24, 2020, in Richmond Va.

Matt Keough was born July 3, 1955, in Pomona, Calif. and began his major league career Sept. 3, 1977, with the Oakland Athletics. Keough's career with the A's was a successful one, making an All-Star appearance in 1978 and being presented the 1980 AL Comeback Player of the Year Award. After his years with Oakland, Keough split his time between the Yankees, Cardinals, Cubs and Astros but after a foul ball hit to his right temple, his playing career was cut short. Keough later became a minor league scout with the Angels and the Devil Rays, and later a Special Assistant to the General Manager for the A's. Keough passed away May 1, 2020.

Dick Koecher was born March 30, 1926, in Philadelphia, Pa. and made his major league debut Sept. 29, 1946, with the Philadelphia Phillies. Koecher spent three years in the big leagues, spending all three with the Phillies. Koecher passed away Feb. 4, 2020, in Naples, Fla. at age 93.

Don Larsen was born Aug. 7, 1929, in Michigan City, Ind. and made his major league debut with the St. Louis Browns on April 18, 1953. Throughout his 14-year baseball career, Larsen is most known for accomplishing the incredible - pitching a perfect game in the 1956 World Series, which earned him World Series MVP accolades. He earned two World Series Championship rings while with the Yankees, in '56 and '58. Following his baseball career, Larsen became a paper company salesman and retired in Idaho. Larsen passed away Jan. 1, 2020, in Hayden Idaho.

Bob Lee was born Nov. 26, 1937, in Ottumwa, Iowa, making his big league debut April 15, 1964, with the Los Angeles Angels, splitting five-year career between the Angels, Dodgers and Reds. In Lee's first two years in the majors, he became a reliable reliever making the American League All-Star roster in 1965. Lee passed away March 25, 2020, in Lake Havasu City, Ariz.

Bobby Locke was born March 3, 1934, in Rowes Run, Pa. and made his major league debut June 18, 1959, with the Cleveland Indians. Occasionally referred to as “Larry”, Locke accomplished nine years in the big leagues, splitting his time between the Cleveland Indians, St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies, Cincinnati Reds and California Angels. During his debut, Locke hit his first and only home run of his career. While serving with the United States Army in Germany, Locke missed the 1957 and 1958 seasons. He also was a hair stylist. Locke passed away June 4, 2020.

Phil Linz was born June 4, 1939, in Baltimore, Md. and made his major league debut April 13, 1962, with the New York Yankees. Linz played seven years in the big leagues, spending his time with the Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Mets. In the 1964 World Series, Linz hit two home runs, one of them being in the ninth inning of Game 7 off of Bob Gibson. After his playing days, Linz worked in the insurance industry and resided in Stamford, Conn. Linz passed away Dec. 9, 2020, in Virginia.

Jim Manning was born July 21, 1943, in L'Anse, Mich. and made his major league debut April 15, 1962, with the Minnesota Twins. In his first three outings as a pitcher for the Twins, Manning allowed no earned runs. Manning passed away Jan. 1, 2020, in Asheville, N.C.

Hank Mason was born June 19, 1931, in Marshall, Mo. and made his major league debut Sept. 12, 1958, with the Philadelphia Phillies. Beginning in the Negro Leagues with the Kansas City Monarchs, Mason pushed barriers then becoming the first black pitcher for the Phillies. After his playing days, Mason became an ordained minister in the Methodist Church in Kansas City, Mo. Mason passed away May 29, 2020.

John Matias was born August 15, 1944, in Honolulu, Hawaii, making his big league debut April 7, 1970, with the Chicago White Sox. After his time in the majors, Matias became a coach at Pearl City High School and Damien Memorial School. Matias passed away April 7, 2020 in Oahu, Hawaii.

Mike McCormick was born Sept. 29, 1938, in Pasadena, Calif. and made his major league debut with the New York Giants on Sept. 3, 1956. McCormick ended his 16-year career as a four-time All-Star, a National League Cy Young Award winner – the first year there was a separate award in the National League and the American League. The same year he won the NL Cy Young Award in 1967, he also won the NL Comeback Player of the Year. McCormick passed away June 13, 2020, in Cornelius, NC.

Lindy McDaniel was born Dec. 13, 1935, in Hollis, Okla. and made his major league debut Sept. 2, 1955, with the St. Louis Cardinals. McDaniel, a two-time All-Star, is known for his dominance as a reliever during his era. He spent 21 years in the majors, splitting his time playing with the Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, San Francisco Giants, New York Yankees and the Kansas City Royals. McDaniel passed away Nov. 14, 2020, in Carrollton, Texas.

Jack McMahan was born July 25, 1932, in Hot Springs, Ark. and made his major league debut April 18, 1956, with the Pittsburgh Pirates. McMahan spent 1956 in the majors, and played professionally from 1952-59. He passed away Oct. 16, 2020, at the age of 88.

Denis Menke was born July 21, 1940, in Bancroft, Iowa and made his major league debut April 14, 1962, with the Milwaukee Braves. Menke played 13 seasons in the big leagues, playing 841 games at shortstop, 420 at third base, 233 at second base and 162 at first base. Menke, a two-time All-Star in 1969 and 1970, ended his career with a total of 101 major league home runs. In 1969 he was involved in five double plays in one game, holding the record for double plays in a nine-inning game by a shortstop. After his playing career, Menke managed in the minor leagues from 1977-79, was a hitting instructor for the Philadelphia Phillies in 1993, and a hitting coach for the Cincinnati Reds from 1977-2000. He passed away Dec. 1, 2020, in Tarpon Springs, Fla.

Bob Miller was born June 16, 1926, in Detroit, Mich. and made his major league debut Sept. 16, 1949, with the Philadelphia Phillies. Miller played 10 years in the big leagues, all with the Phillies with his biggest playing moment being Aug. 9, 1953, when he shut out the Chicago Cubs, and went 4-5 at the plate. After his playing days, he went into the insurance business, as well as coached baseball at the University of Detroit where he was inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame in 1979. Miller was also inducted to the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame in 1999. He passed away Nov. 27, 2020.

John Miller was born May 39, 1941, in Baltimore Md. And made his major league debut Sept. 22, 1962, with the Baltimore Orioles. Miller pitched five seasons with the Orioles, winning a World Series in 1966 with the team. After retiring from the game, he became a firefighter. Miller passed away June 5, 2020.

Roger Moret was born Sept. 16, 1949, in Guayama, Puerto Rico and made his major league debut Sept. 13, 1970, with the Boston Red Sox. With nine years in the big leagues, Moret spent his playing time with the Red Sox, Atlanta Braves, and Texas Rangers. Moret passed away after a fought battle with cancer Dec. 7, 2020, in Guayama, Puerto Rico.

Joe Morgan was born Sept. 19, 1943, in Bonham, Texas, and made his major league debut Sept. 21, 1963, with the Houston Colt .45s. A dominant player in the league for 22 years, Morgan is known for being one of the finest second baseman of all time. Some accolades picked up throughout his career are, 10 All-Star appearances, five Gold Glove Awards, two World Series Championship wins, two MVP Awards, a Silver Slugger Award and a 1990 induction into the Hall of Fame. Morgan sits at the top, leading all second basemen in the Hall of Fame with 266 home runs and batting .268 overall. Most known for his successful time with the Cincinnati Reds, Morgan’s number eight was retired by the Reds and inducted into the franchises Hall of Fame in 1987. A Joe Morgan life-size statue sits in front of Cincinnati’s Great American Ballpark in honor of the Big Red Machine and his time with the club. He also was inducted to the Houston Astros Hall of Fame in 2019 – the inaugural class for the Astros. After his playing career, he became an ESPN broadcaster on Sunday Night Baseball broadcasts from 1990 to 2010. Morgan passed away Oct. 11, 2020, in Danville, Calif.

Phil Niekro was born April 1, 1939, in Blaine, Ohio and made his major league debut April 15, 1964, with the Milwaukee Braves. Most known for mastering the knuckleball, Niekro received the nickname Knucksie. Niekro pitched 24 years in the majors, spending 20 of those years with the Braves. He ended his successful career with five All-Star appearances, five Gold Glove Awards, and was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame on Jan. 6, 1997. On Aug. 5, 1973, Niekro pitched a no-hitter against the Padres while playing with the Braves. At age 46, he became the oldest pitcher to throw a shutout, passing Satchel Paige. Niekro retired with 318 career wins and holds the record for most wins by a pair of brothers with his brother Joe (539). Niekro also accomplished having 13, 15-win seasons, three 20-win seasons, was a four-time NL Complete Games Leader, and was awarded the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award - just to name a few. After his playing career, he managed an all-female team named the Colorado Silver Bullets, touring around the country playing semi-pro men’s teams. In 1991, he also managed the Atlanta Braves’ AAA farm team, the Richmond Braves. After a hard-fought battle with cancer, Niekro passed away Dec. 26, 2020, in Flowery Branch, Ga.

Bob Oliver was born Feb. 8, 1943, in Shreveport, La. and made his major league debut Sept. 10, 1965, with the Pittsburgh Pirates. After eight years in the majors, he ended his career with 94 home runs - 27 being with the Kansas City Royals in 1970. Oliver spent more than 400 games playing first base, more than 200 in the outfield and more than 150 at third base. He later ran a baseball academy, named the Bob Oliver Baseball Academy after his playing days. Oliver passed away April 19, 2020, in Rio Linda, Calif.

Bill Oster was born Jan. 2, 1933, in New York, N.Y. and made his major league debut with the Philadelphia Athletics on Aug. 23, 1954. During his playing days, Oster struck out Ted Williams the first time he ever faced him. Oster passed away June 6, 2020.

Johnny Paredes was born Sept. 2, 1962, in Maracaibo, Venezuela and made his major league debut April 29, 1988, with the Montreal Expos. Paredes spent three years in the big leagues, playing for the Expos and the Detroit Tigers. Before his time in the majors, Paredes was named Rookie of the Year in the Venezuelan League for the 1983-84 season. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2018 and passed away from the disease Nov. 4, 2020, in Maracaibo, Zulia Venezuela.

Jarrod Patterson was born Sept. 7, 1973, in Montgomery, Ala. and made his major league debut June 16, 2001, with the Detroit Tigers. Patterson is best known for hitting home runs off of Curt Schilling and Brad Radke. Patterson passed away March 11, 2020, in Clanton, Ala.

Don Pavletich was born July 13, 1938, in Milwaukee, Wis. and made his major league debut April 20, 1957, with the Cincinnati Reds. Pavletich had back-to-back solid season with the Reds in 1965 when he hit .319, and 1966 when he hit .294 with 12 home runs. After his playing career ended, Pavletich became a loan officer with Universal Mortgage Corporation and later retired in Brookfield, Wis. Pavletich passed away March 5, 2020, in Brookfield, Wis.

Ron Perranoski was born April 1, 1936, in Paterson, New Jersey and made his major league debut April 14, 1961, with the Los Angeles Dodgers. A reliever for 13 seasons, Perranoski was a two-time American League Saves leader during his time with the Minnesota Twins (1969 & 1970). He appeared in three World Series with the Dodgers in 1963, 1965 and 1966 – winning the title in 1963 and 1965. Perranoski then became the Dodgers’ pitching coach under Tommy Lasorda during the years 1981 to 1994. After his time with the Dodgers, he was the pitching coach for the San Francisco Giants, later working in their front office. Perranoski passed away Oct. 2, 2020, in Vero Beach, Fla.

Paul Pettit was born Nov. 29, 1931, in Los Angeles, Calif. and made is major league debut May 4, 1951, with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Pettit spent two seasons with the Pirates. He passed away Sept. 24, 2020.

Dan Pfister was born Dec. 20, 1936, in Plainfield, New Jersey and made his major league debut Sept. 9, 1961, with the Kansas City Athletics. Pfister spent four years in the big leagues, all four spent with the Athletics. His most notable year was 1942, where he appeared in 41 games with 25 starts. After his playing career ended due to an elbow injury, Pfister became a fireman. Pfister passed away Nov. 9, 2020.

Biff Pocoroba was born July 25, 1953, and made his major league debut April 25, 1975, as a member of the Atlanta Braves. Spending his entire 10-year big league career with the Braves, Pocoroba was named to the All-Star team in 1978. After some shoulder issues following the All-Star appearance, he was used as a pinch-hitter during his final seasons. After the game, he ran a specialty meat business in Atlanta, Ga. He passed away May 24, 2020, in Grayson, Ga.

J.W. Porter was born Jan. 17, 1933, in Shawnee, Okla. and made his major league debut July 30, 1952, with the St. Louis Browns at age 19. Porter spent six years in the majors, splitting his time between the Browns, Detroit Tigers, Cleveland Indians, Washington Senators and the St. Louis Cardinals. Porter missed two seasons (1953-54) due to serving in the military, but later joined the Tigers in 1955. After his playing days, he became a minor league manager with the GCL Expos in 1969, the West Palm Beach Expos in 1970 and the Montreal Expos’ entry in the Florida Instructional League in 1969. After managing, Porter stayed close to his baseball roots, becoming an usher at the Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter, Fla. where he became a popular figure to see around the stadium. He was one of the last eight living Browns’ members, and attended a virtual meeting with the Browns society just a few days before his passing. Porter passed away at age 87 on Oct. 11, 2020, in Jupiter, Fla.

Bobby Prescott was born March 27, 1931, in Colon, Panama and made his major league debut June 17, 1961, with the Kansas City Athletics. During his time in the minor leagues, Prescott hit 398 home runs, ranking sixth of all time. He made 10 major league appearances with the Kansas City Athletics. Prescott passed away Aug. 2, 2020, in Ciudad de Panamá, Panamá.

Hal Raether was born Oct. 10, 1932, and made his major league debut July 4, 1954, with the Philadelphia Athletics. Raether spent two seasons with the Athletics – the first being in 1954 during the club’s last year in Philadelphia, and 1957 when the franchise relocated to Kansas City. Leaving baseball at 26 years old, Raether moved on from playing and became the director of an athletic club. He passed away on October 10, 1932 in Lake Mills, Wisc.

Ken Retzer was born on April 30, 1934 in Wood River, Ill. and made his major league debut on September 9, 1961 with the Washington Senators. Retzer spent three years in the majors with the Senators, and finished his 16-game debut with a .340/.386/.472 line. While playing catcher for the Senators, Retzer caught the first pitch tossed out by John F. Kennedy on the Senators’ Opening Day on April 9, 1962, and also caught the first pitch of MLB’s 100,000th game, on Sept. 6, 1963; that ball was immediately retired and is in Cooperstown to this day. Ken Retzer passed away May 17, 2020, in Sun City, Ariz.

Les Rohr was born March 5, 1946, in Lowestoft, United Kingdom and made his major league debut Sept. 19, 1967, with the New York Mets. Rohr was the Mets second overall pick of the 1965 MLB Draft, and spent his entire three-year big league career in the organization. After his playing career ended due to a back injury, Rohr moved on to coach American Legion ball in his hometown of Billings, Montana. Rohr passed away Nov. 6, 2020.

Jorge Rubio was born April 23, 1945, in Mexicali, Mexico and made his major league debut April 21, 1966, with the California Angels. After a brief stint with the Angels, playing two seasons with the team, Rubio spent the most of his playing career playing in the Mexican League. Rubio passed away June 15, 2020.

Mike Ryan was born Nov. 25, 1941, in Haverhill, Mass. and made his major league debut with the Boston Red Sox on Oct. 3, 1964. In 1969, Ryan tied with Randy Hundley for the National League lead in assists. After his playing days with the Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies, Ryan became a coach for the Phillies from 1980-1995. Ryan passed away July 7, 2020, in Wolfeboro, N.H.

Tommy Sandt was born Dec. 22, 1950, in Brooklyn, N.Y. and made his major league debut June 29, 1975, with the Oakland Athletics. Sandt spent two years in the big leagues, both years being with the Athletics. After his playing days, Sandt managed the Buffalo Bisons (1982), the Lynn Pirates (1983) and the Hawaii Islanders (1984-86). Sandt also coached the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1999 for a decade under skipper Jim Leyland. He passed away Dec. 1, 2020, in Lake Oswego, Ore.

Dick Scott was born March 15, 1933, in Portsmouth, N.H. and made his major league debut May 8, 1963, with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Before beginning his baseball career with the Dodgers in 1956, Scott spent two years in the Army. Scott passed away Feb. 10, 2020.

Bob Sebra was born Dec. 11, 1961, in Ridgewood, N.J. and made his major league debut June 26, 1985, with the Texas Rangers. Sebra spent six seasons in the big leagues, pitching for five different teams. In 1988 he received Pitcher of the Year for the American Association with the Indianapolis Indians. Sebra passed away July 22, 2020, due to a multiple organ failure.

Tom Seaver was born Nov. 17, 1944, in Fresno, Calif. and made his major league debut April 13, 1967, with the New York Mets. Nicknamed Tom Terrific, Tom Seaver ended his Hall of Fame career with a Rookie of the Year Award, three Cy Young Awards, 12 All-Star appearances and a 1969 World Series Championship ring. In his major league debut with the Mets, Seaver set a franchise record for a debut, striking out nine opposite batters. Accomplishing five one-hitters throughout his playing career, Seaver tossed a no-hitter June 16, 1978, during his time with the Cincinnati Reds. One of the top pitchers during his time and still to this day, Seaver spent 20 successful years in the big leagues, earning a Hall of Fame induction in 1992. Seaver ended his career with 311 career wins and 3,640 strikeouts and after retirement, wrote two books - The Perfect Game, and The Art of Pitching. He remained working in baseball after his playing days as a television broadcaster for the New York Yankees (1989-1993), the New York Mets (1999-2005) and held the title of President Emeritus for the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association’s for-profit subsidiary, Major League Alumni Marketing. Seaver passed away Aug. 31, 2020, in Calistoga, Calif. after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s dementia in March of 2019.

Hal Smith was born Dec. 7, 1930, in West Frankfort, Ill. and made his major league debut April 11, 1955, with the Baltimore Orioles. During his 10-year career, Smith won a World Series in 1960 with the Pittsburgh Pirates. After his baseball career, he became a salesman for a steel company and a restaurant owner. Smith passed away Jan. 9, 2020, in Columbus, Texas.

Bill Spanswick was born July 8, 1938, in Springfield, Mass. and made his major league debut April 18, 1964, with the Boston Red Sox. With the Red Sox, he pitched 29 games in one season. Spanswick passed away Dec. 2, 2020, in Naples, Fla.

Ed Sprague was born Sept. 16, 1945, in Boston, Mass. and made his major league debut April 10, 1968, with the Oakland Athletics. Mainly a reliever during his eight-year MLB career, Sprague played for the Brewers, Reds, Athletics and Cardinals. After retiring from the diamond, Sprague purchased the Stockton Ports and the Lodi Dodgers, and then went on to scout for the Baltimore Orioles in 1988, signing Mike Mussina, Jeffrey Hammonds, Brad Bergesen and more. Sprague passed away Jan. 10, 2020.

Bob Stephenson was born Aug.11, 1928, in Blair, Okla. and made his big league debut with the St. Louis Cardinals on April 14, 1955. While playing in the minors prior to his debut, Stephenson missed the 1953 and 1954 seasons due to military service during the Korean War. After the conclusion of his baseball career, Stephenson became the co-owner of the Potts-Stephenson exploration company in Norman, Okla. before retiring in 2010. Stephenson passed away March 20, 2020.

Tony Taylor was born Dec. 19, 1935, in Central Alava, Cuba and made his major league debut April 15, 1958, with the Chicago Cubs. In his 19 years in the major leagues, Taylor spent most of his time with the Philadelphia Phillies. His most notable season being 1970 when he posted a line of .301/.374/.462. He also made an All-Star appearance in 1960. After being traded to the Detroit Tigers in 1971, Taylor assisted Detroit to a division title in 1972, hitting .303. After his playing days, Taylor worked for the Phillies as a minor league manager, as well as a major league coach for the Phillies and Florida Marlins. Taylor was inducted into the Philadelphia Baseball Wall of Fame in 2002. Taylor passed away July 16, 2020.

Bert Thiel was born May 4, 1926, in Marion, Wis. and made his major league debut with the Boston Braves on April 17, 1952. After his playing days, Thiel became a minor league manager and scouted for the Washington Senators and Atlanta Braves. After baseball, he opened up a restaurant and bar, named Bert’s 10th Inning in his hometown of Marion, Wis. Thiel passed away July 31, 2020, in Pella, Wis.

Arnold Umbach was born Dec. 6, 1942, in Williamsburg, Va. and made his major league debut with the Milwaukee Braves on Oct. 3, 1964. Umbach ended his major league career with a 3.12 ERA, and later became a lawyer in Alabama. After a long-fought battle with Parkinson’s disease, Umbach passed away May 30, 2020, in Auburn Ala.

Dan Walters was born Aug. 15, 1966, in Brunswick, Maine and made his major league debut June 1, 1992, with the San Diego Padres. After his professional catching days ended due to a serious spinal injury in 1996, Walters worked as a police officer for the city of San Diego. While on duty in 2003, Walters was struck by a bullet, then hit by a passing car, paralyzing him from the neck down. After suffering from many physical and emotional complications from the events, Walters passed away April 23, 2020.

Claudell Washington was born Aug. 31, 1954, in Los Angeles, Calif. and made his major league debut July 5, 1974, with the Oakland Athletics. After 17 seasons in the big leagues, Washington ended as a two-time All-Star and 1974 World Series champion with the Oakland Athletics. The outfielder split his time playing with seven different teams throughout his career. Washington passed away June 10, 2020, in California.

Bob Watson was born April 10, 1946, in Los Angeles and made his major league debut with the Houston Astros on Sept. 9, 1966. Nicknamed the Bull, Watson played 19 years in the big leagues, hitting .295 and accomplishing historical feats including being the one-millionth run in baseball history in 1975, and also being the first player to hit a cycle in both the American and National Leagues in 1977 and 1979. After his playing years were finished, Watson became a coach for the Oakland Athletics and was later named the general manager for the Astros in 1994 and 1995 – becoming the second African-American GM in baseball history. He then served as vice president of Major League Baseball until retiring in 2010. Watson passed away May 14, 2020, in Houston, Texas.

Ray Webster was born Nov. 15, 1937, in Grass Valley, Calif. and made his major league debut April 17, 1959, with the Cleveland Indians. Webster appeared in 40 outings before he was called for military duty. After his return back to the game, Webster finished his major league career with the Boston Red Sox, after being traded Jan. 8, 1960. After he retired from the game, he became an owner of the Webster Insurance Agency in Marysville, Calif., and also managed and played for the Twin City Giants – a semi-pro team. Webster passed away June 3, 2020, in Browns Valley, Calif.

Fred Wenz was born Aug. 26, 1941 in Bound Brook, N.J. and made his major league debut June 4, 1968, with the Boston Red Sox. Wenz ended his baseball career with a perfect 3-0 record, playing in 31 games over three seasons with the Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies. Following his playing days, Wenz became a business man working in the liquor business and in the storage shed business. He passed away Oct. 6, 2020, in Branchburg, N.J.

Wally Wolf was born Jan. 5, 1942, in South Gate, Calif. and made his major league debut Sept. 27, 1969, with the California Angels. Wolf spent two years with the Angels as a right-handed pitcher. Wolf passed away July 7, 2020, in Los Angeles, Calif.

Hank Workman was born Feb. 5, 1926, in Los Angeles and made his major league debut with the New York Yankees on Sept. 4, 1950. After a brief time in the majors, Workman played six years in the minors before becoming a lawyer. After earning his law degree from Loyola Law School, Los Angeles, Workman worked for the California Attorney General's office before entering into a private practice. Workman passed away March 16, 2020, in Santa Monica, Calif.

Jimmy Wynn was born March 12, 1942, in Hamilton, Ohio, making his major league debut with the Houston Colt .45's on July 10, 1963. Wynn spent 15 years in the majors, 10 of which were spent with Houston. A multi-talented player, Wynn earned three All-Star accolades and had his #24 retired by the Astros in 2005. Wynn was also a member of the Astros' Hall of Fame class in 2019. After his playing career, Wynn frequently participated in MLBPAA fundraising events and Legends for Youth clinics. Wynn passed away March 26, 2020, in Houston.

George Yankowski was born Nov. 19, 1922, in Cambridge, Mass. and made his major league debut Aug. 17, 1942, with the Philadelphia Athletics. Yankowski then missed the next three seasons due to military service with the U.S. Army during World War II. After the war, he returned to the big leagues with the Chicago White Sox, finishing his playing career in 1949. Yankowski retired in 2010 and returned to his hometown of Cambridge, Mass. Yankowski passed away Feb. 25, 2020, in The Villages, Fla.

Tom Yewcic was born May 9, 1932, in Conemaugh, Pa. and made his major league debut June 27, 1957 with the Detroit Tigers. After his baseball days, Yewcic played in the Canadian Football League, and after one season in Canada, he joined the Boston Patriots. After his baseball and football playing career, he became a college coach then rejoined the Patriots as an assistant coach. Yewcic was also a partner in a surgical supply company. He passed away Oct. 20, 2020 in Arlington, Mass.