Bob Skinner, three-time World Series winner, passes away at 94

Bob Skinner Passes Away at 94

Bob Skinner, a World Series-winning player and coach, passed away Monday in San Diego at the age of 94.

Skinner had a 12-season career in Major League Baseball before transitioning into coaching. He was part of three World Series championships: one as a player with the Cardinals in 1964, and two with the Pirates—one as a player in 1960 and the other as a coach in 1979.

“As a member of the 1960 World Series winning team, Bob played a key role in one of the most beloved teams in our storied history and helped bring about moments that will forever be woven into the fabric of our city,” noted Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting. “Bob was a talented player, a proud Pirate, and a respected member of the baseball community. On behalf of the entire Pirates organization, we extend our deepest condolences to Bob’s family, friends, and everyone who knew and loved him.”

Throughout his career, Skinner maintained a batting average of .277 and was honored as a National League All-Star in 1958 and twice more in 1960, when there were two All-Star Games held that season.

Starting his baseball journey in 1951, he faced a brief hiatus when he was drafted into the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War. He served two years at a recruiting depot in San Diego, playing on the base team during that time.

Skinner rejoined the Pirates for spring training in 1954 and made his major league debut on April 13 of that same year. He spent eight seasons with the Pirates before being traded to the Reds in 1963, and later to the Cardinals in 1964.

One of his standout seasons was in 1960, where he achieved a personal best of 86 RBIs, contributing significantly to the Pirates’ World Series victory.

After retiring in 1966, he shifted to coaching and managerial roles, including a stint as the Phillies’ captain from 1968 to 1969 and a brief role as interim manager for a single game against the Padres in 1977. He also coached for the Angels, Pirates, and Braves.