Baseball mourns the passing of Mickey Lolich, the legendary Detroit Tigers pitcher and 1968 World Series MVP, who died at the age of 85.
News of Lolich’s passing was first reported by the Detroit Free Press. However, no cause has yet been revealed. What is clear is that Lolich’s remarkable career and lasting impact on the sport have made him a Detroit icon.
From rookie to World Series hero
Lolich began his Major League career with the Tigers in 1963, staying with the team until 1975 before brief stints with the New York Mets and San Diego Padres until his retirement in 1979. By the end of his career, he had accumulated 217 wins and 2,832 strikeouts, ranking fifth all-time among left-handed pitchers and 23rd in overall strikeouts.
His performance in the 1968 World Series remains legendary. Facing a 3-1 series deficit, Lolich pitched three complete game victories, including a dramatic Game 7 win over future Hall of Famer Bob Gibson. His efforts earned him the World Series MVP award, highlighted by a 3-0 record and 1.67 ERA in the championship series.
A lasting legacy beyond baseball
The Tigers honored their legend, stating: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mickey Lolich and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. One of the finest pitchers in franchise history, Lolich was a three-time All-Star who holds multiple team records. He will be remembered as one of the most durable and dominant left-handed pitchers of his era.”
Many others, including the MLB’s official account, paid tribute to the three-time All-Star on social media.
Outside the diamond, Lolich ran a doughnut shop in Rochester before relocating it to Lake Orion. He stayed involved with the Tigers alumni network and coached at the franchise’s fantasy camp in Lakeland, Florida. His achievements earned him induction into both the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame and the Croatian-American Sports Hall of Fame.
Though he was traded to the New York Mets in 1975 as part of a package for Rusty Staub, Lolich‘s legacy in Detroit endures. His record-setting strikeouts, standout World Series performance, and dedication to the game left an indelible mark on the sport and the city of Detroit.
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