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Probably doesn't mean a lot in the grand scheme of things, but I was saddened to read in the Free Press that the Tigers announced the passing today of one of the greatest pinch hitters of all time, Gates Brown. He was 74.
http://www.freep.com/article/2013092...detroit-tigers
One of the most beloved Tigers. With rosters carrying a ridiculous 12 pitchers, teams don`t have that important power hitting pinch hitter off the bench like in those days. You will never see a bench player play his entire 13 year career with one team again. On the other hand, had Gator come along 10 years later he may have made a bundle as a DH.
If i'm not mistaken, wasn't he a batting coach for a while too? got to see him at a little league dinner when i was a kid - very nice guy
I like this You Tube video from earlier this year......
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-w4UOurM--Y
Seriously a touch of class down at the ballpark. He will be missed greatly.
I was at the doubleheader, in 1968, in which Gates Brown drove in the winning runs in both games. Sadly, my parents left the second game early because the Tigers were too far behind. I believe they rallied from down 4-2 in the ninth to win 5-4 in that second game.
Oh man, I loved the Gator. Wonderful man. Made a great comeback from youthful legal troubles that landed him in jail down in Ohio. He will be missed.
Another part of my youth gone... Bye Gates.
I am very sorry to hear about his passing. He contributed much to the
Tigers and the city. I had the good opportunity to meet him at a meeting.
He was an impressive guy who contributed to the city.
We got to know Gates pretty well last year when he was receiving the same medical treatment as my father. He was always friendly and warm even when he was not feeling very well. He loved to talk about the Tigers!
Rest in peace in the ballfield in the sky, Gates!
I was also at the Doubleheader!!!...Gates was my Favorite Tiger!!!!...Got to know him early 80's...worked on the west side...He use to come into a party store next door..a true Gentleman!!!...His autographed pic hangs on my wall?..RIP Gator!!!...Whaler
RIP Gator.....you are missed.