Mickey Lolich, the last pitcher in Major League Baseball to achieve three complete-game wins for the Detroit Tigers in the 1968 World Series, passed away at the age of 85. The Tigers confirmed his death following a brief period in hospice care, though the exact cause was not disclosed.
While Denny McLain shone brightly in the 1968 season with 31 regular-season victories, it was Lolich who emerged as the Series’ Most Valuable Player, boasting an impressive 1.67 ERA and clinching a crucial Game 7 win against the St. Louis Cardinals and pitcher Bob Gibson on the road.
An iconic moment captured Lolich leaping into the arms of catcher Bill Freehan as they secured the final out of the Series, symbolizing Detroit’s championship triumph. Lolich, ranked 23rd in career strikeouts with 2,832, outperforming many Hall of Famers, including fifth among left-handed pitchers, according to baseball-reference.com.
Despite facing challenges in 1968, Lolich stepped up during the World Series games, pitching Game 7 with only two days of rest. His stellar performance led to him being named Series MVP, receiving a Dodge Charger GT as the prize. Lolich’s legacy includes a career record of 220-192 over 16 years, primarily with the Tigers, before brief stints with other teams.
The Detroit Tigers conveyed their condolences to Lolich’s family, acknowledging his lasting impact on the sport. Post-retirement, Lolich transitioned into the doughnut business in suburban Detroit, a unique move for a former baseball player.