Sunday, February 25, 2018

RIP - Jack Hamilton


Jack Hamilton, who pitched for 6 teams in 8 years, passed away on February 22, 2018 at age 79.


Hamilton began his career in 1962 with the Phillies. Initially a starter, by mid-season he found himself in the bullpen, where he stayed for the bulk of his career, except for 1967 with the Angels.

After 2 seasons with the Phillies, he was traded to the Tigers as part of the Jim Bunning deal. Then it was on to the Mets (1966-67) and Angels (1967-68), before splitting his final 1969 season between the Indians and White Sox.

Hamilton retired after pitching in AAA ball in 1970, and went into the restaurant business.

New York Daily News obituary
 

Wednesday, February 14, 2018

RIP - Tito Francona


Well-traveled Tito Francona passed away on February 13, 2018 at age 84.


Francona began his pro career in the St. Louis Browns' organization. After 2 years in the service, he made the Orioles team in 1956, and was the runner-up for the AL Rookie of the Year award that season (the team's 3rd season in Baltimore), garnering 1 ROY vote (as did Rocky Colavito. Luis Aparicio won the award with 22 votes.)

Tito played 15 seasons, for the Orioles (1956-57), White Sox (1958), Tigers (1958), Indians (1959-64), Cardinals (1965-66), Phillies (1967), Braves (1967-69), Athletics (1969-70), and Brewers (1970).

He was an every-day player as a rookie with the Orioles, and during his time with the Indians (1959-64). He spent his final 6 seasons as a backup 1B-OF for 5 different teams.

After his playing career, he was the director of parks and recreation in New Brighton, PA (a town adjacent to Joe Namath's hometown of Beaver Falls, PA) until retiring 10 years ago.

Francona's son Terry has managed the Phillies, Red Sox, and Indians - winning 2 World Series and another AL Pennant.

Baltimore Sun obituary

New York Times obituary

San Jose Mercury obituary
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Sunday, February 11, 2018

RIP - Wally Moon


1954 NL Rookie of the Year Wally Moon passed away on February 9, 2018 at age 87.


Moon played for the Cardinals from 1954-58, and the Dodgers from 1959-65.

I had just blogged about Moon on my 1965 card blog about 5 months ago.

LA Times obituary