Former MLB Player, Manager & Broadcaster Passed Away At 83

Wikipedia

Former MLB player and manager Jeff Torborg passed away on Sunday at the age of 83. Torborg, a former catcher, famously caught Sandy Koufax’s perfect game and earned recognition as the 1990 American League Manager of the Year while leading the Chicago White Sox.

The News Tribune reported that the White Sox announced on social media that Torborg, who had been living with Parkinson’s disease since his diagnosis in 2010, passed away in his hometown of Westfield, N.J. The cause of death was not disclosed.

The Baseball Hall of Fame first shared the news of his death. 

 

 

Jeff Torborg born in 1941 and raised in Westfield, New Jersey, Torborg gained recognition as a talented athlete early on. He attended Rutgers University, where he was a standout player, earning All-American honors.

Torborg was signed by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1963 and played as a catcher in the major leagues for 10 seasons with the Dodgers and the California Angels. Known for his defensive skills and rapport with pitchers, he is perhaps best remembered for catching two historic no-hitters: Sandy Koufax’s perfect game in 1965 and Nolan Ryan’s first no-hitter in 1973.

After retiring as a player in 1974, Torborg transitioned into coaching and managing. He managed several MLB teams, including the Cleveland Indians, Chicago White Sox, New York Mets, and Montreal Expos. His managerial tenure peaked in 1990 when he was named the American League Manager of the Year for leading the White Sox to an impressive turnaround season.

 

Beyond his managerial career, Torborg worked as a broadcaster, sharing his deep knowledge of the game with fans. His passion for baseball and dedication to the sport earned him widespread respect throughout the baseball community.

Torborg is survived by his wife of almost 62 years, Suzie, sons Doug, Greg and Dale, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Rest in Peace.