What Happened to Jeff Torborg? Former Mets Manager Passes Away

by

The well-known ex-MLB catcher and manager, Jeff Torborg, who left a significant impact on baseball history, has sadly passed away at the age of 83. The Chicago White Sox were the ones to announce his death; however, the specific cause was not revealed. In recent times, this former MLB catcher had been dealing with Parkinson’s disease.

Here’s what we know about Jeff Torborg’s life, career, and the impact of his passing.

Jeff Toborg passes away at 83, claims report

83-year-old Jeff Torborg, a former baseball manager for the New York Mets, passed away on Sunday, according to the Chicago White Sox. Throughout his career that spanned nearly four decades, Torborg moved from playing to managing and broadcasting. Although the circumstances of his death are not yet known, Torborg had been grappling with Parkinson’s disease in his later years.

1964 marked Torborg’s first game as a catcher in the major leagues with the Dodgers, where his exceptional defensive skills shone brightly. He is celebrated for having caught Sandy Koufax’s perfect game in 1965 and Nolan Ryan’s initial no-hitter eight years later in 1973. Afterward, Torborg moved on to coaching and management roles. He managed teams such as the Cleveland Indians, New York Mets, and Chicago White Sox, reaching his pinnacle in 1990 when he was named American League Manager of the Year.

In Chicago, Torborg tasted success; however, his stint with the New York Mets was fraught with difficulties. Joining them in 1992, his arrival corresponded with a downward spiral for the team, which earned them the unflattering title “The Worst Team Money Could Buy.” His dismissal came after a dismal beginning in 1993. Later, Torborg managed both the Montreal Expos and Florida Marlins. His association with the Marlins concluded in 2003. Interestingly, that same year, the team clinched the World Series under Jack McKeon, demonstrating the talent that Torborg had nurtured.

In addition to excelling in his role as a player, Torborg also found success as a broadcaster later on. Particularly notable was his collaboration with Vin Scully during World Series coverage in the 1990s. His impact went beyond both the playing field and the commentary booth, leaving an enduring impact not only on players but also on the overall strategy of the game.

Read More

2025-01-20 12:10