Former World Series MVP Mickey Lolich has died, the Detroit Tigers have announced. He was 85 years old.
The Tigers shared the news of Lolich’s death recently on X.
“The Tigers are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mickey Lolich and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones,” the Tigers said in a statement.
Lolich is considered to be one of the best pitchers in Detroit Tigers history. The lefty pitched for Detroit for 13 seasons from 1963-75, earning MLB All-Star honors three times.
He led the Tigers to a World Series title in 1968, going 3-0 with a 1.67 ERA during a series against the St. Louis Cardinals. St. Louis led the World Series 3-1 before the Tigers rallied to win three straight games to clinch the championship.
“Lolich will be remembered as one of the most durable and dominant left-handed pitchers of his era and a cornerstone of Detroit’s pitching staff for more than a decade,” the statement from the Tigers continued.
In addition to Detroit, Lolich also spent time pitching for the New York Mets and San Diego Padres.
While Lolich had several impressive years, his best season came in 1971 when he was with Detroit and went 25-14 with a 2.92 ERA.
Lolich led the American League in wins, complete games (29), innings pitched (376) and strikeouts (308) that year. He was also second in AL Cy Young voting that season.
A native of Oregon, Lolich finished his MLB career with 217 wins, 2,832 strikeouts and a 3.44 ERA.