Mickey Lolich Passes Away at 85
Mickey Lolich, a significant figure in baseball history and a member of the Detroit Tigers’ glory days, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 85. His demise was confirmed by the Tigers, who shared that Lolich’s wife reported he had recently entered hospice care, though no specific cause of death was disclosed.
Remarkable World Series Performance
Lolich is renowned for his remarkable performance during the 1968 World Series, where he became the last pitcher in Major League Baseball history to secure three complete-game victories in a single series. His outstanding contribution did not go unnoticed; he was awarded the Series MVP for his impressive 1.67 ERA and a pivotal Game 7 win against baseball great Bob Gibson and the St. Louis Cardinals.
The defining moment of the championship came when catcher Bill Freehan caught the final out, a foul tip from Tim McCarver. Lolich’s jubilant leap into Freehan’s arms became one of the iconic images from that season, encapsulating the joy of Detroit’s triumph.
In a reflection back in 2018, Lolich recalled the long wait for recognition. “It was always somebody else,” he said, noting the unexpected nature of his own success that year.
Challenges and Determination
Before the World Series, Lolich faced his share of challenges, as he was moved to the bullpen during much of August by manager Mayo Smith. However, he made a remarkable return to the starting rotation, finishing the season with an impressive 6-1 record in the closing weeks. Lolich’s determination was evident when he told the manager, “If we win this thing this year it’s going to be because of me.”
After a grueling postseason, Lolich pitched Game 7 on just two days of rest. Although he anticipated receiving a Corvette for his MVP performance, he humorously noted that he ended up with a Dodge Charger GT as Chrysler was the sponsor that year.
Career Highlights and Legacy
With a career record of 220 wins and 192 losses, Lolich ranks 23rd all-time in strikeouts, having struck out 2,832 batters, and is fifth among left-handed pitchers. Following his time with the Tigers, he also played with the New York Mets and the San Diego Padres, ultimately retiring after the 1979 season.
In an unexpected career shift after baseball, Lolich ventured into the doughnut business in the Detroit suburbs, successfully operating for nearly two decades. He reflected on this unique transition in his book, “Joy in Tigertown,” suggesting that such a move was rare for former athletes.
Lolich’s legacy not only lies in his triumphant past but also in the way he embraced life after baseball, making him a memorable figure in the sports community.
Additionally, since Lolich’s feat of three World Series victories, only Randy Johnson has matched this achievement, albeit as a relief pitcher. Lolich left a lasting impact in baseball history and will be fondly remembered for his extraordinary contributions to the game.
