Jerry Koosman obit

Jerry Koosman, who got final out in Miracle Mets' World Series win, dies at 83

 

He was not on the list.

NEW YORK -- Jerry Koosman, an All-Star left-hander who got the final out of the Miracle Mets' shocking 1969 World Series victory over the Baltimore Orioles, died Sunday. He was 83.

Mets spokesman Jay Horwitz said Koosman had been sick for about a year and died of multiple illnesses in Osceola, Wisconsin, surrounded by his children.

Koosman jumping onto catcher Jerry Grote as they hugged on the Shea Stadium mound after the final out of the World Series remains an iconic image in baseball history. The Mets had never finished with a winning record before 1969.

"We were so choked up with emotion we couldn't talk," Koosman was quoted as saying in Peter Golenbock's 2002 book, "Amazin': The Miraculous History of New York's Most Beloved Baseball Team."

Koosman went 222-209 with a 3.36 ERA over 19 major league seasons, throwing 140 complete games that included 33 shutouts and becoming a two-time 20-game winner.

Relying primarily on fastballs and curves, he was 140-137 with a 3.09 ERA for the Mets from 1967-78, then pitched for Minnesota (1979-81), the Chicago White Sox (1981-83) and Philadelphia (1984-85).

"I feared losing. I didn't want to be looked upon as a loser by anyone," Koosman said in a 2019 interview with Mets broadcaster Howie Rose.

An expansion franchise that launched in 1962, the Mets lost 100 games in five of their first seven seasons and had not come close to a winning record.

Then in 1969, they surged into first place on Sept. 10 during a 10-game winning streak, winning 38 of their last 49 games and finishing atop the new National League East with a 100-62 record. New York's No. 2 starter behind future Hall of Famer Tom Seaver, Koosman went 17-9 with a 2.28 ERA in 32 starts in 1969.

Koosman was knocked out in the fifth inning in Game 2 against Atlanta of the first NL Championship Series before the Mets rallied and went on to sweep the Braves in the best-of-five matchup.

After Baltimore beat Seaver and the Mets 4-1 in the World Series opener, Koosman allowed one run over 8⅔ innings and got the victory as New York won Game 2 by 2-1. Koosman pitched a five-hitter in Game 5, retiring future Mets manager Davey Johnson on a game-ending flyout to left fielder Cleon Jones as thousands of fans rushed onto the field at Shea Stadium.

"I turn around and look at Cleon and I see Cleon going back and, uh, the first thing is the heart stops," Koosman told Rose. "Well, then you see him slow down -- oh, God, now you know it's OK. Now the only other thing is: Don't drop the ball."

Koosman was honored with a parade when he returned home to Morris, Minnesota.

Born in Appleton, Minnesota, on Dec. 23, 1942, Koosman played baseball while in the U.S. Army at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. According to his biography by Irv Goldfarb of the Society for American Baseball Research, his catcher was John Luchese, son of a Shea Stadium usher. Luchese told his father about Koosman, who passed the information to Joe McDonald in the Mets' front office. Koosman signed on Aug. 27, 1964, for $1,600.

Koosman worked his way up the minor league system and made his big league debut on April 14, 1967, at Philadelphia's Connie Mack Stadium with 2⅔ hitless innings of relief. He was sent to Triple-A Jacksonville when rosters were trimmed and led the International League with 183 strikeouts.

He made it to the major leagues for good in 1968, pitching a four-hit shutout at Dodger Stadium in his first start. He was picked for the All-Star team and faced one batter, striking out Carl Yastrzemski for the final out in the NL's 1-0 win at Houston's Astrodome.

Koosman finished 19-12 with a 2.08 ERA on a staff led by Seaver that included a young Nolan Ryan. He finished second to Cincinnati catcher Johnny Bench in NL Rookie of the Year voting

He was part of the 1969 rotation with Seaver, Gary Gentry, Don Cardwell and Jim McAndruw, again making the All-Star team.

"There's the old saying: good pitching gets out good hitting," Koosman said when the Mets retired his No. 36 in 2021. "So that's what happened and our pitching kind of took over."

With the Mets trailing 3-0 in the sixth inning of Game 5 against the Orioles, Cleon Jones claimed a Dave McNally pitch hit him. The ball bounced to Koosman, seated in the Mets dugout by manager Gil Hodges.

"As I bent down, Gil says: `Swipe it against your shoe,'" Koosman told Rose.

Hodges then showed the ball to plate umpire Lou DiMuro, who awarded Jones first base. Donn Clendenon followed with a two-run homer, starting the Mets' comeback in a 5-3.

"Maybe it wasn't mine. Maybe it was Cleon's shoe polish," Koosman said.

He made two starts in the 1973 World Series against Oakland, getting no decision in Game 2 and winning Game 5.

With the Mets in decline, Koosman told the team after the 1978 season he would retire unless traded. The Mets dealt him to the Twins in December 1978, and he later was traded to the White Sox in August 1981 and to the Phillies in February 1984.

He is survived by sons Michael and Shawn, and daughter Danielle. His marriage to the former LaVonne Sorum ended in a divorce.

Koosman was discovered by the son of a Shea Stadium usher, John Lucchese, who caught Koosman when he pitched in the United States Army at Fort Bliss, Texas. The Mets offered Koosman a contract after his discharge from the military.

In 1970, Koosman posted a 12–7 record with a 3.14 ERA. Over the next two seasons, however, he posted losing records: 6–11 in 1971 (a season in which he was beset by arm woes) and 11–12 in 1972 with a 4.14 ERA—more than a run and a half above his career ERA to that point. In 1973 he went 5–0 in his first six starts, but ended the season 14–15. In late August/early September of that year, he set a Mets' record by pitching 312⁄3 consecutive scoreless innings (R. A. Dickey broke his mark by pitching 322⁄3 consecutive scoreless innings in 2012). As in 1969, the Mets unexpectedly won the NL East title—once again overtaking the Cubs, whom they had trailed this time by as many as nine games—on the strength of the pitching of Koosman, Seaver and the previous year's NL Rookie of the Year, Jon Matlack. This comeback gave rise to two slogans: Tug McGraw's "Ya Gotta Believe!" and manager Yogi Berra's "It ain’t over 'til it's over."

In Game Three of the NLCS against the Cincinnati Reds, Koosman pitched a complete game for a 9–2 victory in a game that was headlined by Pete Rose's altercation with Mets' shortstop Bud Harrelson. The victory gave the Mets a 2–1 lead in the NLCS; they won the pennant two days later in five games.

Koosman was the winning pitcher in Game Five of the World Series against the defending champion Oakland Athletics, holding Oakland scoreless for 61⁄3 innings. This victory gave the Mets a 3–2 lead in the Series; however, Oakland won the next two games to repeat as World Champions.

In the Minors he played for the Williamsport Mets, Greenville Mets, Auburn Mets and Jacksonville Suns.

 

MLB statistics

Win–loss record          222–209

Earned run average     3.36

Strikeouts        2,556

Stats at Baseball Reference Edit this at Wikidata

Teams

New York Mets (1967–1978)

Minnesota Twins (1979–1981)

Chicago White Sox (1981–1983)

Philadelphia Phillies (1984–1985)

Career highlights and awards

2× All-Star (1968, 1969)

World Series champion (1969)

New York Mets No. 36 retired

New York Mets Hall of Fame

John Mocek obit

UTA Athletics Mourns Loss of John Mocek 

He was not on the list.

ARLINGTON, Texas (Oct. 26, 2026) – The UT Arlington Athletics Department is saddened to learn of the passing of beloved baseball alumnus, assistant coach, administrator and UT Arlington Athletics Hall of Honor member John Mocek. Mocek, known to nearly everyone as 'Moe,' spent nearly 50 years involved in UTA Athletics.

"There is no doubt that 'Moe' is one of the most adored and influential figures in UTA Athletics history,'" Director of Athletics Jon Fagg said. "From his time as a student-athlete to his long, successful career as a coach and administrator, he defined what it means to be a Maverick. Our hearts go out to his family and friends."

Mocek first came to Arlington as a member of the UTA baseball team where he lettered four years (1974-77) as a first baseman and designated hitter. As a senior, he was named Honorable Mention All-Southland Conference. At the time of his graduation, the native of Chicago, Ill., held program records for most home runs and most RBI in a conference season, as well as RBI in a conference game.

Following his graduation in 1977, Mocek served as the UTA Athletics Business Manager from 1978-82. He then returned to the diamond for 14 seasons (1983-96), serving as an assistant coach and third base coach under fellow UTA Hall of Honor member Marvin "Butch" McBroom.

Mocek moved back into administration for the next two-plus decades, serving in nearly every possible capacity with UTA Athletics. He managed events and facilities, served as the ticket manager and promotions director, announced events via public address, radio and television, and oversaw operations. He even maintained fields, worked as an equipment manager and assisted with sports information duties.

Mocek climbed the administrative ranks to become the Senior Associate Athletics Director for Finance and Administration. Following his retirement in 2018, Mocek continued to serve as the department's unofficial historian and archivist and was a mainstay in the broadcast booth for Maverick baseball on the radio and ESPN+.

During his time at the university, Mocek also served as a member of the university faculty, teaching advanced techniques of coaching baseball and the history and business of baseball in UTA's Department of Kinesiology. He also served as an official scorer for Major League Baseball's Texas Rangers from 1998-2010, scoring 342 MLB contests (340 regular season games, one American League Division Series game and one American League Championship Series game).

Mocek was inducted into the UT Arlington Athletics Hall of Honor in 2022. In April of 2019, UTA Athletics unveiled the John & Pattye Mocek 3rd Base Patio at Clay Gould Ballpark. Mocek is one of three people in UTA baseball history who has donned the Maverick uniform more than 1,000 times, and the only one who played and coached

Mocek was born on Aug. 21, 1954. He is survived by his wife, Pattye, and children, John and Elizabeth.

Mocek was a baseball player at UTA, lettering all four years from 1974-1977 as a first baseman and designated hitter. His senior year, he was named an honorable mention on the All-Southland Conference Team.

When he graduated, Mocek held program records for most home runs and RBIs in a conference season. Afterward, the Chicago native stayed in Arlington, working as the athletic department’s business manager.

After five years in the role, Mocek found himself back on the baseball field, now a third base coach under his collegiate head coach, the legendary Marvin “Butch” McBroom. During Mocek’s tenure in the coach’s box, UTA reached the NCAA tournament twice, in 1990 and 1992.

After the 1996 season, Mocek stepped away from the diamond and back into the administrative office of the athletic department. His jobs included event and facility management, ticket manager and promotions director, public address announcer, radio and television broadcaster, operations supervisor, field maintenance, equipment manager and helping with sports information duties.

Eventually, Mocek climbed the administrative ladder to senior associate Athletics director for finance and administration. He retired in 2018, but never left the Mavericks. He became a de facto UTA Athletics historian and archivist, and was a frequent presence in the press box, often joining the radio and ESPN+ broadcasts.

During his time working at UTA, Mocek was also a member of the faculty. As a professor in the Kinesiology department, he taught students the business of the sport of baseball, along with the game’s advanced coaching techniques.

Mocek’s reach in Arlington baseball wasn’t confined to Clay Gould Ballpark, either. For over a decade, he was an official scorer for the Texas Rangers, scoring 342 total games at The Ballpark in Arlington.

George Thomas obit

Utility Player for Expansion Angels, 13-Year MLB Veteran, Dies at 88

George Thomas hit .280 for the first Angels team in 1961 

He was not on the list.

George Thomas, a versatile utility player who helped launch the Los Angeles Angels franchise in 1961 before becoming a valued utility player on Boston’s “Impossible Dream” Red Sox, died Friday, according to Minneapolis Star-Tribune sports columnist Patrick Reusse. He was 88.

Born in Minneapolis on November 29, 1937, Thomas signed with the Detroit Tigers in 1957 after playing baseball at the University of Minnesota. His major-league opportunities were initially limited, but a midseason move in 1961 changed his career.

The expansion Angels sent cash to Detroit in June in exchange for the 23-year-old Thomas, giving him an opportunity to prove himself with a new franchise. He quickly made an impression.

Thomas played 79 games for Los Angeles in 1961, batting .280 with 13 home runs. He collected his first major-league hit, a double off Chicago White Sox pitcher Billy Pierce, on June 30, and hit his first home run two days later against Warren Hacker. On September 9, he hit his first major-league grand slam.

Those accomplishments came during a distinctive chapter in baseball history. The Angels’ inaugural season was played at Wrigley Field in Los Angeles, a compact ballpark that had previously hosted Pacific Coast League baseball.

The stadium’s short power alleys helped produce a record 248 home runs during the 1961 season. It was the Angels’ only major-league season at Wrigley before the team moved to Dodger Stadium in 1962. The old ballpark was later demolished.

Thomas missed the beginning of the 1962 season in order to complete his service in the Army, and played 56 games after he returned. He slashed .238/.320/.381 while playing home games at the more pitcher-friendly park in Chavez Ravine, and saw time at all three outfield positions.

Thomas was slashing .210/.254/.335 for the Angels when he was traded back to Detroit in June 1963. He would play for the Tigers (1963-65), Boston Red Sox (1966-71) and Minnesota Twins (1971) before retiring.

Red Sox fans gained affection for Thomas when he played a key role on their 1967 team that captured the American League pennant for the first time since 1946.

In 685 career MLB games, Thomas batted .255 with 46 home runs and 202 RBIs, while appearing at every position except pitcher.

After retiring, Thomas returned to his alma mater, serving as an assistant baseball coach before becoming the Golden Gophers’ head coach from 1979-81. His teams compiled a 95-43 record. Minnesota continues to honor Thomas' legacy through its George Thomas Most Improved Player Award.

 

Teams

Detroit Tigers (1957–1958, 1961)

Los Angeles Angels (1961–1963)

Detroit Tigers (1963–1965)

Boston Red Sox (1966–1971)

Minnesota Twins (1971)

Ross Newhan obit

MLB Mourns as Veteran Baseball Journalist Passes Away at 89

 

He was not on the list.

“I have seen the perception of the baseball writer change from a more innocent time in the early 60s… to the current environment, when it almost seems as if there is an adversarial relationship.” Ross Newhan was one of those rare voices who saw baseball journalism evolve with time. After four decades chronicling the stories that shaped Los Angeles baseball, Newhan has taken his final bow at 89, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that stretched far beyond the headlines he wrote. His passing marks the end of an era for LA baseball journalism. But his contributions remain etched in the history of the game.

“We send our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and readers of longtime distinguished LA Times baseball writer Ross Newhan, who passed away at 89. Ross was a true gentleman, a highly respected voice in his 43-year career, and a baseball Dad to former Major Leaguer David Newhan. He will be missed,” MLB Communications shared via X.

Newhan was a titanic figure in baseball journalism, widely considered a giant of the profession during his 43-year career. He spent the vast majority of his career covering MLB for the Los Angeles Times from 1968 until his retirement in 2004. Thus, chronicling the eras of both the Los Angeles Dodgers and the California Angels.

Newhan began covering the newly formed Los Angeles Angels franchise in their inaugural 1961 season as their local beat writer for the Long Beach Press Telegram. He was then hired by the Times in late 1967 as a traveling beat writer. There he covered both the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Angels for 11 years, bridging two fan bases.

Newhan was assigned exclusively to the Angels beat starting in 1979. It made its way into his book The California Angels, which was published in 1982. Between 1986 and 2004, Newhan acted as the national baseball writer for the LA Times. He also covered major non-baseball events, including the Winter Olympics, Triple Crown horse racing, and major golf tournaments.

While Ross Newhan’s work included high-impact, analytical opinion pieces, he maintained direct access to owners and executives. His reporting on the historic sale of the Dodgers won the top Associated Press Sports Editors (APSE) Award for the top news story of 1997.

“The Dodgers today mourn Ross Newhan, the Hall of Fame sportswriter, who passed away this morning at the age of 89,” the Dodgers shared. “We send our condolences to his wife, Connie, and their friends and family.”

At the time of his passing, he held the distinction of being the longest-tenured active member of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA).

One of the most notable works of Newhan was exposing the ownership collusion in the late 1980s. Back then, MLB team owners allegedly banded together to artificially depress player salaries and destroy the free-agent market. Newhan was one of the loudest, sharpest voices exposing the scam.

He aggressively covered leaked testimonies, identifying how commissioner Peter Ueberroth and club owners blatantly shared information to set illegal caps on free-agent offers. His reporting continuously held leadership accountable, famously asserting that management should “pay a stiff price” for violating bargaining agreements 

Apart from his journalism work, Ross had another connection with the game: his son David. While Ross built a legendary career writing about baseball from the press box, David made it to the field. He carved out a professional baseball career that spanned over two decades as both a player and a staff strategist.

David Newhan was drafted by the Athletics in the 17th round of the 1995 MLB Draft out of Pepperdine University. He made his big league debut with the San Diego Padres in 1999.

With someone of such stature, Ross Newhan’s absence would be hard to fill, especially in the LA baseball community.

Newhan garnered the 1997 Associated Press Sports Editors Award for his story on the sale of the Los Angeles Dodgers. In 1998, he was inducted into the Southern California Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. Newhan was the 2000 recipient of the J. G. Taylor Spink Award, given annually by the Baseball Writers' Association of America (BBWAA). He co-authored the book Coaching Baseball Successfully

Christine Wren obit

Seattle’s Christine Wren, baseball’s first full-time female umpire, dies at 78

 She was not on the list.

Christine Wren was an American professional baseball umpire who, in 1975, became the first woman to work a full season as an umpire in organized baseball. Born in Seattle on June 25, 1948, and raised in Spokane, Washington, she umpired three seasons of Class A minor league ball, in the Northwest League in 1975 and 1976 and in the Midwest League in 1977. She followed Bernice Gera, who had worked a single professional game in 1972 after a long legal fight, and she helped open a door that later women umpires, from Pam Postema to Jen Pawol, would walk through. She died in Spokane on October 25, 2026, at the age of 78, after a long illness.

Wren was the oldest of four sisters, all born within a span of a little over four years. As an eight year old she dreamed of playing center field for the New York Yankees like her idol Mickey Mantle, and she spent long afternoons playing street and sandlot baseball with the neighborhood boys, usually as the only girl. Her grandmother told her she could do anything she wanted when she grew up, and her mother agreed. As a teenager she played fastpitch softball, usually as a catcher, including for the Webb Cats, a semipro team in Yakima regarded as one of the best on the West Coast. She later said she decided she could umpire after being called out on a play at second base that she was sure was wrong.

She studied education at Eastern Washington University for a few years before moving back to Seattle in her early twenties. By day she worked odd jobs, including as a general laborer at an auto body shop and as a security guard. By night she officiated as many amateur baseball, basketball and football games as she could. Her first applications to formal umpire schools were rejected on the grounds that the courses were full. On her next application she signed her name as Chris rather than Christine, and she was accepted into the Bill Kinnamon Specialized Umpire Training Course, a five week program that began in January 1975 in Southern California. She was 26 and the only woman among 39 students. At the end of the course she was named one of the school's top ten umpires, which qualified her for a minor league job.

Before that job arrived, Los Angeles Dodgers president Peter O'Malley tracked her down at the auto body shop and invited her to umpire the annual exhibition game between the Dodgers and the University of Southern California at Dodger Stadium. A co-worker hung up on his first call, assuming it was a joke. Wren worked the plate in front of a crowd of about 51,000 and later called it the highlight of her career. "That gave me a picture of what The Show was like," she said.

Her first minor league assignment was the short season Class A Northwest League, at a salary of 300 dollars a month plus 5.25 dollars a day for expenses. She drove through the night between games in a 1975 Chevy van that doubled as her summer home, with her cockapoo Arrow along for the ride. Her first ejection came at Sicks' Stadium in Seattle on June 26, 1975, a day after her 27th birthday, when she tossed Seattle Rainiers catcher Ron Gibson after an argument over a foul tip. Later that season a foul ball fractured her right collarbone. She told no one and worked the final six weeks of the season anyway.

Baseball's umpire development officials openly questioned whether a woman could take the physical punishment of the job, and instead of the promotion she hoped for she was sent back to the Northwest League in 1976. In 1977 she moved to the full season Class A Midwest League, cutting her long ponytail into a short wedge so she would blend in on the field. League president Bill Walters was impressed enough to say he wanted to convince Commissioner Bowie Kuhn that she was good, and he invited her to work the league's All-Star Game. It became her last season. She came to understand that there was no path for a woman to the major leagues, and she walked away on her own terms after 1977. "I gave it the best shot I could," she said decades later. "I don't think I'm bitter. I love the game."

After baseball she kept working in fields where women were rare. She drove a delivery truck for UPS, one of only two women working out of the downtown Seattle warehouse. In the mid 1980s she went back to school to learn Apple computers, which led to a job as a staff computer specialist in the Renton School District, where she worked for about 25 years with her old umpire's chest protector hanging above her desk. She later donated that chest protector, along with scrapbooks and game baseballs, to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. For roughly 35 years she avoided publicity, and she retired to Spokane in 2015, where she volunteered delivering food for Meals on Wheels, gardened, and listened to Spokane Indians games on a transistor radio hung on her fence.

In 2020 Seattle Times reporter Adam Jude persuaded her, reluctantly, to tell her story for a Pacific NW Magazine cover feature. That story put her in touch with Jen Pawol, then working her way up through the minor leagues, and the two became friends. Wren travelled to Tacoma to watch Pawol work a Triple-A series. When Pawol became the first woman to umpire a regular season Major League Baseball game in August 2025, fifty years after Wren's debut, Wren wrote: "It's about time." Pawol named Wren among the people she needed to thank.

Wren is survived by her sisters Mary, Margaret and Kathleen, and by nieces, nephews and many close friends.

Todd Benzinger obit

Reds 1990 World Series champion Todd Benzinger dies at 63

 

He was not on the list.

Former Reds first baseman and 1990 World Series champion Todd Benzinger has died. He was 63.

The Dayton, Kentucky native and New Richmond High School grad caught the final out of the 1990 World Series, made Cincinnati his home, and was very involved with Reds community events.

Benzinger played three seasons with the Reds from 1989-91 and was a key contributor during the 1990 wire-to-wire championship season. He also played for the Boston Red Sox, Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants.

The Reds shared a statement, mourning his loss.

"Todd will be remembered with great affection and gratitude for his place in one of the most memorable chapters in Reds history. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, former teammates and all who knew and loved him," the statement reads.

Even after his time with the team, he stayed connected with the community, becoming a popular guest at Redsfest and other events like the Reds Caravan, Reds Fantasy Camp, and Reds Legends Remember program.

“Todd will forever be remembered by Reds fans for catching the final out of the 1990 World Series, but those of us who had the privilege of knowing him will remember so much more. Todd remained close to the Cincinnati community and was a tremendous friend to the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, generously participating in our events and sharing his time with fans. We will miss his friendship, his kindness and his presence in our community,” said Rick Walls, executive director of the Reds Hall of Fame Museum.

He was also a fixture in his hometown of Dayton, Kentucky, as an active youth baseball coach and mentor.

Benzinger was born in Dayton, Kentucky, and was a graduate of New Richmond High School in New Richmond, Ohio. Benzinger started his MLB career with the Boston Red Sox in 1987. He later played for the Cincinnati Reds, Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Dodgers, and the San Francisco Giants. Benzinger ended his professional playing career in 1995 after playing with the Columbus Clippers, then a minor league affiliate of the New York Yankees. He played the majority of his career at the first baseman position, although he did occasionally play the outfield.

As a member of the Red Sox, Benzinger is legendary for his clutch hitting during the Sox' 1988 "Morgan Magic" run, particularly his 10th inning walk-off HR on July 20, 1988. This has been called "The Benzinger Game" by some Red Sox enthusiasts. Benzinger ended Orel Hershiser's scoreless streak at 59 innings on an RBI hit in the first inning of Hershiser's first start of 1989.

From 2006 to 2008, Benzinger coached the girls' basketball team at Loveland High School in Loveland, Ohio. He managed the Dayton Dragons for the 2009 and 2010 seasons.

His son, Grant Benzinger, played for the 2017–18 Wright State Raiders men's basketball team. During the Horizon League Tournament, Grant earned MVP honors and helped the Raiders secure the conference title and an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

Sam McDowell obit

Guardians’ ‘Sudden’ 6-time All-Star dies at 84

The 15-year MLB veteran also pitched for the Yankees, Giants and Pirates.

 He was not on the list.

“Sudden” Sam McDowell — a six-time All-Star pitcher for the Cleveland Indians, now the Guardians, who finished his career with the San Francisco Giants, New York Yankees and Pittsburgh Pirates — has died. He was 84.

Bob Pompeani of KDKA in Pittsburgh reported that McDowell died Monday, Oct. 5.

In a 15-year MLB career, McDowell struck out 2,453 batters — eighth on baseball’s career list when he retired, and No. 46 all-time today. He led the American League in strikeouts five times.

McDowell retired with a 141-134 record and a 3.17 ERA.

A Pittsburgh native, McDowell debuted at 18 in September 1961. Four years later, he led the AL in ERA (2.18), struck out a career-high 325 batters and made his first American League All-Star team.

McDowell helped athletes struggling with substance abuse.

However, his career was derailed by alcohol abuse, a vice he chronicled in depth in his 2025 memoir, “The Saga of Sudden Sam: The Rise, Fall, and Redemption of Sam McDowell.” He pitched his final game for the Pirates as a 32-year-old in 1975.

After retiring as a player, McDowell counseled athletes who struggled with drug and alcohol abuse — not only in MLB but in the NFL and NHL as well.

“I remember when I got out of rehab, I must have called that man every day, at every hour of the night, for four straight months,” former big league pitcher Mike York told the Los Angeles Times. “I mean, I was calling him at 5 in the morning, midnight, it didn’t matter. He was always there when I needed him.”

McDowell was the Baseball Assistance Team’s addiction and recovery consultant from 1987-2016.

McDowell had two children, Debbie and Tim.

The character of Sam Malone, the alcoholic ex-Red Sox pitcher portrayed by Ted Danson in the television program Cheers, was based on the baseball life of McDowell. In a 2011 interview with the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, McDowell joked "I would say I'm better with women than [Sam Malone] was.

During the 1960 season, as a high school graduate, McDowell signed with the Indians for a $75,000 bonus. McDowell made the signing announcement at the conclusion of his appearance in the third segment of To Tell the Truth aired on June 16, 1960. He spent the 1960 season with the Class D Lakeland Indians, where he had a 5–6 record, with a 3.35 earned run average (ERA). He struck out 100 batters in 1042⁄3 innings pitched, but also had 80 bases on balls. He picked off 43 base runners, modeling his technique on Hall of Fame left-handed pitcher Warren Spahn, who had given McDowell pickoff tips when he was in Pittsburgh.

In 1961, McDowell was promoted to the Triple-A Salt Lake City Bees of the Pacific Coast League. He finished the year there with a record of 13–10 and a 4.42 ERA. He had 156 strikeouts and 152 bases on balls in 175 innings pitched; averaging 8 strikeouts per nine innings (K/9), but also 7.8 bases on balls per nine innings (BB/9). This was enough to earn him a promotion to the majors in September, and one week before his 19th birthday he made his MLB debut for the Indians. Starting against the Minnesota Twins, McDowell pitched 61⁄3 scoreless innings, giving up just three hits. He had to leave the game because he broke two ribs throwing a pitch.

Teams

Cleveland Indians (1961–1971)

San Francisco Giants (1972–1973)

New York Yankees (1973–1974)

Pittsburgh Pirates (1975)

Career highlights and awards

6× All-Star (1965, 1966, 1968–1971)

AL ERA leader (1965)

5× AL strikeout leader (1965, 1966, 1968–1970)

Cleveland Guardians Hall of Fame

Fred Claire obit

Former Dodgers GM Fred Claire Dies at 91

The longtime Dodgers executive helped build the 1988 World Series champions during a three-decade career with the organization.

 He was not on the list.

LOS ANGELES, CA — Former Los Angeles Dodgers public relations executive and general manager Fred Claire died at his home Monday night, the team announced Tuesday. He turned 91 on Monday.

Claire spent three decades with the Dodgers and served as general manager from 1987 through 1998, helping construct the club that won the 1988 World Series.

“The Dodgers are grieving the passing of Fred Claire, a longtime key fixture of our organization,” Dodgers president and CEO Stan Kasten said in a statement.

“Fred brought many victories and Dodger legends to our franchise, as well as a 1988 World Series title, and we are forever grateful for his leadership during such a memorable era. Our hearts go out to his wife Sheryl and his family.”

Longtime Dodgers broadcaster Ross Porter first announced Claire’s death Monday night in a Facebook post, writing that Claire died on his birthday after an 11-year battle with cancer.

“I lost a close friend today. The world lost a good man,” Porter wrote.

Fred Claire helped build the 1988 World Series champions

A native of Jamestown, Ohio, Claire moved with his family to Torrance when he was 15. He graduated from Torrance High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University before working as a sportswriter during the late 1950s and 1960s.

Claire’s Dodgers career began in 1969, when the Long Beach Press-Telegram assigned him to cover Spring Training in Vero Beach, Florida. He joined the club’s public relations staff that summer, became vice president of the department in 1975 and was elevated to general manager in 1987.

His most enduring baseball legacy came almost immediately. Claire reshaped a Dodgers club that had lost 89 games in 1987 and assembled the roster that won the 1988 World Series.

Claire signed National League MVP Kirk Gibson and added several other important pieces, including Mickey Hatcher, Rick Dempsey and Mike Davis. He also helped acquire Alfredo Griffin and relievers Jay Howell and Jesse Orosco, strengthening the defense and bullpen around a pitching staff led by Orel Hershiser.

The Dodgers defeated the heavily favored Oakland Athletics in five games. Claire was named The Sporting News’ Major League Executive of the Year for his work building the championship club.

Claire later told MLB.com that the unity and character of the 1988 roster were central to its success. His role in constructing that team remained a defining part of his Dodgers legacy.

A Dodgers executive and cancer advocate

Claire remained the Dodgers’ general manager through June 1998. His tenure also included five consecutive National League Rookie of the Year winners from 1992 through 1996: Eric Karros, Mike Piazza, Raúl Mondesi, Hideo Nomo and Todd Hollandsworth.

After his baseball career, Claire became a prominent advocate and fundraiser for City of Hope following his diagnosis with jaw and neck cancer. Porter wrote that Claire credited the medical center with extending his life and referred to those additional years as “extra innings.”

Porter also remembered Claire as the executive who helped begin his 28-year Dodgers broadcasting career and as a loyal friend to his family.

Claire is survived by his wife, Sheryl, and their three children, Jeff, Jennifer and Kim. Funeral services are pending.

Bob Fontaine Jr., obit

Bob Fontaine Jr., a legendary scout who drafted the Angels’ 2002 championship core, dies at 73

 He was not on the list.

Bob Fontaine Jr., the longtime scout who helped assemble the Angels’ 2002 World Series-winning core, died Saturday at 73 after more than five decades in baseball.

He saw past concerns about Jim Abbott’s missing right hand, selecting the left-handed pitcher eighth overall in 1988; Abbott reached the majors straight from college.

Fontaine also identified future Hall of Famers Ozzie Smith, Tony Gwynn and Randy Johnson.

The baseball world was captivated by left-handed pitching prospect Jim Abbott ahead of the 1988 major league draft mostly because he didn’t have a right hand. Seven teams passed on him before the Angels picked him.

Why? Largely because Angels scouting director Bob Fontaine Jr. ignored the potential limitations that others fixated on when evaluating Abbott. Rather than dwelling on the absence of a right hand, Fontaine saw something wondrous coming out of Abbott’s left hand — a cut fastball.

“He’s actually more suited to the pro game than the amateurs with the aluminum bats,” Fontaine told The Times after the draft. “He’s going to be breaking off a lot of these wood bats with that cut fastball.”

As usual, Fontaine, who died Saturday at age 73, was prophetic in his assessment. Abbott became the rare pitcher to go straight from college — he’d starred at Michigan — to the major leagues, skipping the minors entirely and enjoying a 10-year MLB career while inspiring numerous fans in disabled communities.

“I think every scout, if they scout for any length of time, is going to have one player that just is special to you. Jimmy Abbott was that,” Fontaine told JapanBall in 2022. “There were people that were even kind of saying, ‘Oh, they did it for a publicity stunt.’ I remember saying, ‘Yeah, we took the eighth player in the country for a publicity stunt? Give us some credit!’”

Fontaine was showered with plenty of posthumous credit over the weekend. He scouted for six teams, and a highlight of his resume was drafting the nucleus of the Angels’ roster that won the 2002 World Series.

“What a character ... what a storyteller ... and what a talent evaluator ... there is no 2002 World Series title for the #Angels without Bob Fontaine Jr. ... RIP,” wrote former longtime Times baseball writer Mike DiGiovanna on X.

“Crushed regarding Bob Fontaine Jr.’s passing, as he was a special man who I was lucky to work closely with three times @WhiteSox @Mariners, and @BlueJays. Fun as hell, elite evaluator, and phenomenal people skills. RIP, Robert,” added former Dodgers general manager Dan Evans.

“A gifted talent evaluator and mentor, Bob helped shape generations of Angels by overseeing the signing and development of numerous Halos, including Jim Abbott, Jim Edmonds, Garret Anderson, Tim Salmon and Darin Erstad,” the Angels said in a statement. “Bob left a lasting mark on baseball by devoting over five decades to the game. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.”

The Angels frustrated Fontaine at times by declining to spend big on players from talent-rich Latin America. Rather than sulk, however, he scoured the globe, in 1992 signing three players from Russia and a fast-pitch softball player from New Zealand named Gus Leger.

Asked by The Times’ Bill Shaikin if he had ever played baseball, Leger responded, “I haven’t. Would it help?”

The experiment failed — none of the quartet advanced beyond Class A — yet Fontaine maintained the sunny outlook he inherited from his father. Bob Fontaine Sr. was a scout who worked under the legendary Branch Rickey with the Brooklyn Dodgers before becoming scouting director of the Pittsburgh Pirates for 18 years and the first scouting director of the expansion franchise San Diego Padres. He also served as general manager of the Padres from 1977 to 1980.

“[My father] told me when I got started, ‘Don’t you ever, ever not appreciate where you are and what you’re doing, because you’re lucky. You’re going to a ballpark to make a living, so your bad days aren’t that bad,’” Fontaine Jr. said. “I never forgot that, I never forgot how lucky I am.

“Hey, you’re looking at a guy that barely squeaked through high school, who doesn’t have any ability, and I lasted almost 50 years. It’s because in baseball, if you listen, and you’re not afraid to take a chance once in a while, even somebody with my lack of ability can stay around for a while,” he said.

Fontaine got his foot in the door through his father. His first job as a teenager was as a minor league bat boy with the Pirates. Next he became a peanut vendor at Forbes Field. By age 19, he caught on with the Padres as an area scout.

Both Fontaines were scouts well ahead of the deep empirical and objective analysis of baseball data — sabermetrics is the catchall term — that some believe has made scouts obsolete. Fontaine maintained the best evaluations come when scouting is utilized along with numbers.

“What the traditional scout gives you is personal reference, like with things I learned on players that I missed on,” he said. “Analytics didn’t do that. I’m a firm believer that the best video camera is your eyes, the best model is your brain, and the best way to make a tough decision is with your heart.”

Fontaine’s methods produced results. Under his guidance in 1977, the Padres drafted future Hall of Fame shortstop Ozzie Smith in the fourth round. Four years later Fontaine plucked another future Hall of Famer, taking outfielder Tony Gwynn in the third round.

And when Fontaine moved to the Montreal Expos in 1985, he took a 6-foot-11 left-handed pitcher out of USC named Randy Johnson in the second round — another Hall of Famer.

Fontaine co-authored a memoir in 2021, “In Search of Millionaires (The Life of a Baseball Gypsy): The Accounts of Bob Fontaine Jr.”

“Baseball has provided me with a fabulous opportunity to see the world and work in an industry that most people envy,” he wrote in the book. “I didn’t get rich, except in experiences. To meet and work against so many fine people, as well as some great general managers and owners, has been a privilege.”

David Rosello Rodriguez obit

Longtime Cubs infielder who finished career in Cleveland dies at 76

 A veteran infielder who played nine MLB seasons and was known more for his glove than his bat with the Cubs and Indians died at 76

He was not on the list.

Dave Rosello, who played nine MLB seasons for the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Indians, died Wednesday, Sept. 30, in Kissimmee, Fla. He was 76.

A native of Puerto Rico, Rosello was mostly a backup infielder, known more for his fielding prowess than his bat.

A three-time American Association All-Star in the minors, Rosello led Double-A shortstops in assists and chances in 1972. But he needed time to prove himself as a hitter before finally getting a chance to play regularly in Chicago.

Rosello spent parts of four seasons as a backup second baseman and shortstop with the Cubs when, in 1976, he faced the unenviable task of replacing six-time All-Star Don Kessinger at shortstop.

Rosello got his most extended playing time with the Cubs that year after getting the start on Opening Day. In a career-high 91 games, he slashed .242/.359/.286, with more walks (41) than strikeouts (33).

But Rosello’s time as a starter ended relatively quickly. By 1977, he was back in a reserve role and the Cubs traded Rosello to Cleveland for Norm Churchill and Bruce Compton — two players who never reached the majors — after the season.

In three seasons in Cleveland (1979-81), Rosello played another 173 games. He set a career high in 1979 by hitting three home runs and driving in 14.

In 1982, Rosello spent the season with Cleveland’s Triple-A affiliate, appearing in most of his 111 games at third base. That proved to be his last season in professional baseball in the U.S. Rosello retired with a career batting average of .236 in 422 major-league games.

According to his online obituary, Rosello is survived by two children, two stepchildren and five grandchildren.

David Rosello Rodriguez, who was born on June 26, 1949, in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, and passed away on September 30, 2026, in Kissimmee, Florida, lived a life marked by kindness, laughter, and devotion to the people he loved most.

He was a friendly, funny, and kind man whose presence brought warmth and comfort to those around him. David carried himself with a welcoming spirit and a genuine interest in others, and he was known for the easy way he could make people feel at home. His life was centered on family, friendship, and the simple joys that made each day meaningful.

David’s greatest passion was baseball. He loved the game deeply and found great joy in serving as a baseball coach, where he shared his knowledge, encouragement, and enthusiasm with others. Coaching was more than a pastime to him. It was a way to inspire, teach, and connect with those around him. He took pride in helping others grow, and his love for the sport left a lasting impression on many.

In addition to baseball, David enjoyed golf and appreciated the pleasure of a good drive, a day at the beach, and the excitement of travel. He also loved good food and treasured the experiences that came from sharing meals and memories with the people closest to him. One of his favorite traditions was attending Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, an experience he looked forward to and enjoyed with great enthusiasm.

Above all else, David loved spending quality time with his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Virgen Rodriguez, and a loving father to his children, Noemi Rosello Rodriguez and David E. Rosello Rodriguez. He also embraced his role as a stepfather to Jonathan L. Soto Rodriguez and Christopher L. Soto Rodriguez with care and affection. His love extended to his grandchildren, Ian Reyes Rosello, Alice Reyes Rosello, Christopher L. Soto Perez, Liddiannis Mendret Perez, and Valentino Soto, each of whom brought him great pride and happiness.

David’s life was a reflection of love, loyalty, and joy. He will be remembered for his humor, his gentle nature, and the way he made others feel valued and appreciated. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In the minors he played with the Quincy Cubs, San Antonio Missions, Wichita Aeros and Portland Beavers.

Bill Giles obit

Bill Giles, longtime Philadelphia Phillies owner and executive, dies at 92

 

He was not on the list.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Bill Giles, who rose from a Philadelphia Phillies business executive to become an owner and CEO during more than a half-century with the team, died Friday at his home in Gladwyne, Pennsylvania. He was 92.

A son of former National League president Warren Giles, Bill Giles started with the team in 1969 as vice president, business operations, and was promoted to executive vice president three years later.

In 1981, he organized a group that purchased the club from the Carpenter family. He served as president and CEO until 1997, then became chairman. He shifted to chairman emeritus in 2015, a title he held at the time of his death.

The Phillies honored Giles with a moment of silence before Friday’s game against Tampa Bay.

Philadelphia had just four winning seasons during Giles’ time as CEO but went to the World Series in two of them. Giles also played a major role in building the Phillies team that won the World Series in 1980, including convincing former owner Ruly Carpenter to sign free agent Pete Rose.

“Bill helped to reshape our franchise from a traditional baseball club into a highly visible entertainment and business operation,” Phillies managing partner and CEO John Middleton said in a statement. “His profound impact in overseeing one of the greatest eras in franchise history, both on and off the field, will forever be his legacy.”

Giles, whose father headed the NL from 1951-69, became honorary president of the NL in 2001 and was a recipient of the Bud Selig Executive Leadership Award for lifetime achievement in baseball in 2010.

Giles helped push for the opening of Veterans Stadium in 1971 and current home Citizens Bank Park in 2004. He also was inspired to create a mascot for the Phillies that would become the beloved Phillie Phanatic.

In 1999, the Phillies established the Bill Giles Award to honor minor league players who share the same attributes as the namesake: a love and respect for the game of baseball, an outstanding work ethic and pride in being a member of the Phillies organization.

Giles began his baseball career as a teenager working various jobs in the Cincinnati Reds’ public relations department. He went on to advance his career in Houston, serving as traveling secretary, publicity director and promotions director before joining the Phillies following the 1969 season.

Giles gave up his day-to-day responsibilities with the team in 1999 and remained on as chairman.

“It wasn’t: ‘Do it or else.’ I wasn’t forced out,” Giles said. “It was a strong suggestion, but it was my decision. The business part of the game had gotten to me. I wasn’t as effective as I had been. Some of the partners said ’Don’t you think it’s time to let a younger man worry about all those things?’”

Giles authored the book “Pouring Six Beers at a Time: And Other Stories from a Lifetime in Baseball,” and co-authored another on the business of baseball.

“Bill was the heart and soul of the organization for over two decades,” Hall of Famer and former Philles third baseman Mike Schmidt said in a statement. “He was a close personal friend to so many of us. He will always be a big part of Phillies history.”

Don Cooper obit

Don Cooper, long-time White Sox pitching coach and World Series champion, dies at 70

 

He was not on the list.

Don Cooper, the long-time Chicago White Sox pitching coach who mentored ace hurlers on the Southside for nearly two decades, died on Tuesday.

His family announced his passing on social media, and the White Sox announced his passing on their official social media accounts.

Cooper was 70 years old.

The backstory:

Cooper was with the White Sox for 33 years before the two sides parted ways in 2020 after the team parted with then-manager Rick Renteria.

He spent 18 seasons as the White Sox pitching coach.

"I would be remiss as the general manager, this organization would be remiss and White Sox fans would be remiss if we didn't take a moment to appreciate the contribution that Don Cooper has made to this organization over the last three decades," former White Sox general manager Rick Hahn said in 2020 when the White Sox parted ways with Cooper.

When Cooper left the White Sox in 2020, he was the longest-tenured pitching coach in Major League Baseball. The White Sox named him the team's pitching coach on July 22, 2002, and Cooper worked with four different managers on the Southside during his tenure.

The list of star pitchers he mentored in the big leagues is long, too.

Cooper presided over Mark Buehrle, Jon Garland, Chris Sale and Lucas Giolito's growth with the White Sox. Cooper's staff in the 2005 American League Championship Series had four starters – Buehrle, Garland, Freddy Garcia and Jose Contreras – pitch complete games against the Angels, helping lead the way to a World Series title in 2005.

Cooper also helped develop Philip Humber, who tossed a perfect game for the White Sox in 2012.

What they're saying:

"The White Sox send our condolences to the family, friends and fans of Don Cooper, who has passed away at 70."

Don Cooper spent 33 seasons as a coach in the White Sox organization from 1988-2020, including 18 full seasons as the major-league pitching coach.

Cooper served as the pitching coach for the 2005 World Series champion club, which became the first team since the 1928 Yankees to toss four consecutive complete games in a single postseason. Forever in our thoughts," the White Sox wrote in a statement on social media.

Cooper worked in the White Sox organization starting in 1988, when he served as a minor league pitching coach for the Single-A South Bend Silver Hawks. He also served as pitching coach for the Single-A Advanced Sarasota White Sox from 1989 through 1991 and the Double-A Birmingham Barons in 1992. He became the White Sox minor league pitching coordinator from 1993 through 2002, aside from serving as pitching coach for the Triple-A Nashville Sounds in 1995 and 1996.

 

Born: January 15, 1956

New York City, U.S.

Died: September 22, 2026 (aged 70)

Brentwood, Tennessee, U.S.

Batted: Right

Threw: Right

MLB debut

April 9, 1981, for the Minnesota Twins

Last MLB appearance

June 2, 1985, for the New York Yankees

MLB statistics

Win–loss record          1–6

Earned run average     5.27

Strikeouts        47

Stats at Baseball Reference Edit this at Wikidata

Teams

As player

Minnesota Twins (1981–1982)

Toronto Blue Jays (1983)

New York Yankees (1985)

As manager

 

Chicago White Sox (2011)

As coach

 

Chicago White Sox (2002–2020)

Career highlights and awards

World Series champion (2005)

Joe Morgan obit

Former Red Sox skipper Morgan of 'Morgan's Magic' fame dies at 95

 

He was not on the list.

Joe Morgan, the ultimate baseball lifer who realized his dream of managing his hometown Red Sox and made history while he did it, died on Saturday at the age of 95.

After decades of working under the radar in the sport he loved so much, Morgan suddenly moved from his post as third-base coach for the Red Sox to interim manager just following the 1988 All-Star break. He was 57 years old at the time.

The interim tag didn’t last long and Morgan -- not to be confused with the Hall of Fame second baseman with the same name -- would carve out his own niche and become part of Red Sox folklore.

“Joe Morgan holds a special place in Red Sox history,” Red Sox principal owner John Henry said in a statement. “When he took over in 1988, he changed the course of a season and created one of the most memorable chapters in the history of this club. The two division titles that followed only strengthened a bond with Red Sox fans that endured for the rest of his life. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and all who loved him.”

John McNamara had led the club to the World Series in 1986, losing to the Mets in seven games. After a 78-84 finish in ’87, McNamara’s Sox were 43-42 at the ’88 All-Star break and nine games back in the American League East. With a star-studded cast that included future Hall of Famers Wade Boggs, Jim Rice and Lee Smith, along with Dwight Evans, an in-his-prime Roger Clemens and an emerging young core that included Mike Greenwell and Ellis Burks, Boston’s front office expected more.

General manager Lou Gorman dismissed McNamara and turned to Morgan temporarily as he looked for a permanent successor. Joe Torre was one of the candidates Gorman interviewed.

But something funny happened when Morgan took the helm of a roster with several homegrown players he had managed during his time at Triple-A Pawtucket: The Red Sox kept winning and winning and winning and winning.

Morgan won his first 12 games as the Boston manager, 19 of the first 20 and 19 in a row at Fenway Park (giving the Red Sox 24 straight home victories).

“That will never happen again with an interim manager,” Morgan once said matter-of-factly in an interview with MLB.com.

That period of Red Sox history will forever be known as “Morgan’s Magic.”

Included in the unlikely surge were wild comebacks and one memorable confrontation between Morgan and Rice. In a game against the Twins on July 20, Morgan -- in need of a bunt -- had Spike Owen pinch-hit for the team captain and eventual Hall of Famer.

Rice was upset with Morgan and got confrontational with his manager as he returned to the dugout. Morgan famously shouted at him, “I’m the manager of this nine!”

The Red Sox rallied to win the game with a four-run bottom of the 10th, completed with a walk-off, three-run homer by Todd Benzinger around Pesky’s Pole in right.

When the 19-1 stretch came to an end, Boston immediately lost the first four games of a critical five-game series in Detroit against the Tigers.

Rather than panic over losing a series that threatened to take the Red Sox out of contention just after they had fought their way back in, Morgan uttered this prophetic line: “[Bruce] Hurst will spin a beauty and we'll leave here three games out.”

That they did, with Hurst pitching a 10-inning shutout -- to date, the last shutout of more than nine innings by a Red Sox pitcher – in a 3-0 win for Boston.

Morgan’s Sox finished 89-73 and won the AL East by a game over the Tigers. The joyride ended when a powerhouse Oakland Athletics squad swept the Red Sox in four games in the ALCS.​

“‘Morgan Magic’ is forever part of Red Sox lore,” said Red Sox chairman Tom Werner. “Joe took over in 1988 and gave New England a summer it would never forget. How fitting that, in his final season watching the Red Sox, he saw another team respond to adversity with a remarkable run of its own. Joe gave us one of the great chapters in this club’s history, and we will always remember him for it. Our hearts are with his family.”

The Red Sox deployed Morgan as their manager another three seasons, winning the AL East again in ’90, and again getting swept by the A’s in the ALCS.

Following the ’91 season, many were surprised that the Red Sox fired Morgan after an 84-78 campaign, especially the way the club had charged back into the pennant race, going from 11 1/2 games back on Aug. 7 to a half-game out on Sept. 21. If Boston had stayed on that tear and gone to the playoffs, it might have become known as Morgan Magic, the sequel. Instead, the Sox lost 11 of their last 14 games and Gorman hired Butch Hobson to replace Morgan. Gorman said at the time that his fear that another team would scoop up Hobson was the impetus behind dismissing Morgan.

The day Morgan was let go, he made another one of his memorable statements.

“This team isn’t as good as people think it is,” Morgan said.

Morgan again proved to be prophetic: The Red Sox finished under .500 the next three seasons under Hobson.

In all, Morgan went 301-262 as Boston’s manager. It would be his only Major League managerial stint.

As a manager, Morgan was known for playing hunches at a time data was just coming into the forefront for other skippers such as Tony La Russa and Davey Johnson. He was also known for folksy sayings. Morgan would often say, “6-2 and even.” Nobody really knew what it meant, but it was part of his charm.

“He was a big part of my life and will be missed," Boggs said in a statement. "Not only in Triple-A, but in the big leagues, too. I don’t think he got enough credit for how baseball-smart he was. He played baseball hunches instead of statistics. He will always be one of my favorites.”

Not long before reaching his pinnacle of managing the Red Sox, Morgan did much less glamorous things to supplement his income, such as driving a snowplow on the Massachusetts Turnpike.

The pride of Walpole, Mass., Morgan lived in that Boston suburb for his entire life. Years after his retirement, he would frequently attend Walpole High School football games, just blending into the crowd.

“He was one of a kind," Red Sox broadcaster Joe Castiglione said. "One of my best friends for 41 years. A great baseball mind with incredible intuition. He would have never needed analytics. A very loyal friend and a great storyteller. He will be missed.”​

Joseph Michael Morgan was born on Nov. 19, 1930, in Walpole. After playing baseball and hockey at Boston College, Morgan appeared in 88 games over four Major League seasons spread out from 1959-64 for the Milwaukee Braves, Kansas City Athletics, Philadelphia Phillies, Cleveland Indians and St. Louis Cardinals. He was a career .193 hitter with two homers and 10 RBIs.

Just two years after his playing career ended, Morgan found his true calling -- coaching. He started as a manager in the Pirates organization before he took his natural path to the Red Sox, managing Pawtucket from 1974-82.

During that time, Morgan oversaw the development of many players who would become key to the team’s future, including Boggs, Rice, Fred Lynn, Oil Can Boyd, Hurst and Marty Barrett.

For all that Morgan gave to the game, that surreal ride he led the Red Sox on in ’88 will always stand out.

“A new face, a new style of doing things really made a difference,” Boyd said in 2013 during a ceremony at Fenway Park for Morgan. “When Joe came in, he did a really good job and we ended up winning a lot of ballgames that put us back into first place.”

Helen La Merla Y’Barbo Snyder obit

Helen La Merla Y’Barbo Snyder 1935-2026

 

She was not on the list.

Helen La Merle Y’Barbo Snyder a former infielder in the All-American Baseball League passed away on September 5th at the age of 90.

Born on November 22, 1935, in Chireno, Nacogdoches, Texas, Helen was the daughter of Felix and Laura Mae Lazarine Y’Barbo . Her heritage was a source of deep pride: she was a descendant of Antonio Gil Y’Barbo, known as the “father of Nacogdoches,” one of the oldest towns in Texas.

A Life Shaped by Determination and Talent

At age 14, Helen traveled from the Houston area to visit her sister in Ohio—and decided to stay, finishing high school in Warren and graduating a year early at just 17 . Her athletic talent quickly became evident. She pitched for the Leavittsburg Girls Softball Team, leading the league in hitting, and later starred in the Cortland and Hubbard girls’ leagues, even throwing a no‑hitter in Cortland. While in high school, she pitched for the Leavittsburg Girls Softball She played in the Cortland and Hubbard girls’ leagues, and while in the Cortland league, she pitched a no-hitter! and she was a leading hitter as well.

Her powerful pitching earned her the nickname “Tex,” and her coach famously said that when she released the ball, “you could hear it pop” .

Helen’s skill carried her into history: she became one of only 50 girls—and the only one from Ohio—selected to play in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL). She was chosen by the South Bend Blue Sox and later traded to the Kalamazoo Lassies in 1954 .

A devoted Houston Astros fan, she never hesitated to share who her favorite player was with anyone who asked .

Condolences to her faimly and friends and may he Rest in Peace.

CHAMPION--Helen La Merla Y'Barbo Snyder was called home by our Heavenly Father on Saturday morning, Sept. 5, 2026, while residing at Windsor House at Champion, after a lengthy battle with dementia.

Helen was born Nov. 22, 1935, in Chireno, Nacogdoches, Texas, daughter of the late Felix and Laura Mae Lazarine Y'Barbo. Her ancestor, Antonio Gil Y'Barbo, was the founder known as "the father of Nacogdoches, Texas," considered the oldest town in Texas when his family came from Spain in 1766. She was extremely proud of her Spanish heritage.

She was about 14 years old when she came to Ohio from the Houston area to visit her sister Ruth, who was married and lived in the Warren area. She decided to stay here to finish high school. She graduated a year early at the age of 17. While in high school, she pitched for the Leavittsburg Girls Softball Team and was the leading hitter. She played in the Cortland and Hubbard girls' leagues, and while in the Cortland league, she pitched a no-hitter. Her coach Ray Barto said when "Tex" (the nickname she was given because she was from Texas) released the ball, you could hear it pop.

At that time, she was one of the 50 girls, the only one from Ohio, chosen to play baseball in the All Americal Girls Professional Baseball League. She was chosen by the South Bend, Indiana Blue Sox and traded to the Kalamazoo Lassies in 1954.

A favorite pastime was watching her Houston Astros, and those who knew her knew who her favorite player was.

Helen retired from Packard Electric after 37 years of dedicated service, where she gained a lifetime of friends and co-workers, all of whom she loved dearly. She enjoyed golfing and was one of the original golfers in the Packard Electric Ladies Golf League. She also enjoyed playing bocce, where she was a pointer in several women's leagues at Tod Park and the IFH Club in Girard.

Helen was a dedicated member of St. William Church in Champion. She enjoyed being involved with special events, fundraisers, working the festivals, especially the elephant ear booth, fish dinners, the Women's Guild, and serving on the finance committee; she loved her entire family of fellow parishioners.

Helen is survived by her brother, Dennis and his wife, Pauline Y'Barbo; her sister-in-law, Oletta Y'Barbo, all of Houston, Texas; and several generations of nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved unconditionally, as well as her dear friend and caregiver, Sharon Gilmore.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Cliff and his wife, Martha Y'Barbo, and John Earl Y'Barbo; her sister, Ruth and her husband, John Cole; and her infant sister, Maryann Y'Barbo.

A special thank you to the entire staff of Windsor House at Champion, St. William Church, and SouthernCare Hospice Services; and to Vindicator reporter Ed Runyan, Carol Sheldon and the AAGPBL for bringing her baseball career to life.

Family and friends may visit from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026, at Lane Funeral Homes Roberts-Clark Chapel, located at 180 Garfield Drive NE, Warren.

Larry Christenson obit

Phillies World Series Champion 

Larry Christenson dies at 72

The former Phillies pitcher and 1980 World Series champion spent his entire MLB career in Philadelphia.

 

He was not on the list.

Larry Christenson, a workhorse pitcher for the Phillies in the 1970s and early 1980s, died unexpectedly Friday while on a fishing trip with family and friends in the state of Washington. He was 72.

A native of Everett, Washington, Christenson was the Phillies’ first-round draft pick in 1972. He pitched for the Phils from 1973 to 1983, spending his entire career in Philadelphia. After his playing days, he settled in the Philadelphia area, became successful in business and was active in local charity work. He was a tireless supporter of Phillies Charities, Inc.

“He was always helping people,” remembered former teammate Larry Bowa. “If you needed him, he was there. If there was a fundraiser, he’d be the guy who got everyone together.”

Christenson made it to the majors at age 19. He was a stalwart on three straight National League East championship teams from 1976 to 1978. Over that span, he went 45-28 with a 3.65 ERA in 616 innings. He won 19 games in 1977. He went 5-1 for the 1980 World Series Champion Phillies, but was limited to 14 starts because of injury.

Christenson was the Phillies’ starting pitcher on May 19, 1979 when the team wore burgundy uniforms. Management had intended to have the team wear the uniforms several times that season, but the Phillies lost to Montreal on the night the uniforms debuted and the players did not like them.

“We wore them once,” Bowa recalled. “After the game, Bull (Greg Luzinski) went upstairs and told (owner Ruly Carpenter) we we’re done wearing them.”

Christenson is forever captured in photographs wearing the burgundy uniform.

“He was a great teammate,” Bowa said. “He was a real good hitter for a pitcher. He had a great personality. He had a way of keeping the clubhouse loose, but he was tough and always prepared to pitch.

“I got along with him great. Sometimes when he gave up a long home run, I’d go to the mound and say, ‘How did you hold that pitch?’ He'd look at me and say, ‘Get the (bleep) out of here.’

“Just a great guy. He will be missed.”

Christenson attended Marysville High School in Marysville, Washington where he was noted more for his basketball than baseball skills. He struck out 143 batters in 72 innings and had an earned run average (ERA) of 0.28 in his senior year.

 

MLB debut

April 13, 1973, for the Philadelphia Phillies

Last MLB appearance

June 3, 1983, for the Philadelphia Phillies

MLB statistics

Win–loss record          83–71

Earned run average     3.79

Strikeouts        781

Stats at Baseball Reference Edit this at Wikidata

Teams

Philadelphia Phillies (1973–1983)

Career highlights and awards

World Series champion (1980)