Andy Kosco’s spent his time in MLB largely as a replacement-level player, but the biggest moment in his 10-year career is one he could never forget.
The former Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder played for the New York Yankees in 1968, and replaced Mickey Mantle at first base in the final game of the future Hall of Famer’s career.
“Andy enjoyed telling stories about his baseball days,” an obituary reads. “One of his most memorable and well-known stories is when he replaced Mickey Mantle at first base in Mantle’s final major league game in 1968, at Fenway Park in Boston.”
Kosco, who died aged 84 Dec. 19, played for the Dodgers in 1969 and 1970, and recorded some of his best years in Los Angeles. The Yankees traded him to the Dodgers after the 1968 season, acquiring pitcher Mike Kekich in the deal.
He recorded career highs in batting average (.248), home runs (19) and RBIs (74) during his first season in Los Angeles, and ended the season with an OPS above .700 for the first time in his career. He logged 120 games in 1969, the second-highest tally of his career.
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His 19 dingers led the Dodgers that season, with the next closest player being Bill Sudakis with 14.
Kosco stepped into a reduced role the following season, but still managed solid game time for LA. He played 74 games with the Dodgers the following season, hitting eight home runs and driving in 27 RBIs.
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The Dodgers traded Kosco to the Milwaukee Brewers before the following season, and played there for the entirety of the 1971 season before being traded again after the season. Throughout his career, Kosco played for the Twins, Yankees, Dodgers, Brewers, Angels, Red Sox and Reds.
Kosco ended his career with 73 home runs, 267 RBIs and a .667 OPS through 10 seasons in MLB.
He returned to his hometown following his retirement from baseball in 1975, and began a new career with Goulish-Kosco Insurance. He later became the owner, and earned a bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University in the process.
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Kosco is survived by two siblings, his wife Cathy, their five children and 12 grandchildren.
Photo Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
LA Baseball Report
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