Sandy Alomar Sr. Passes Away at 81

Sandy Alomar Sr., a notable former MLB All-Star who dedicated 15 seasons to baseball and later coached and managed the Puerto Rican national team, has passed away at the age of 81.

Throughout his MLB career, Alomar played for six different teams, and his death has prompted an outpouring of grief from various franchises, including the New York Yankees. “The Yankees mourn the passing of Sandy Alomar Sr. and extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and loved ones,” the team stated.

The Cleveland Guardians also shared their condolences, mentioning that Alomar’s death was communicated by his family. His son, Sandy Alomar Jr., is part of Cleveland’s coaching staff and has a long history of playing both winter and minor league baseball under his father’s guidance, alongside his Hall of Fame brother, Roberto Alomar. “Our thoughts are with the Alomar family as the baseball world mourns his loss,” they posted on social media.

Alomar Sr. kicked off his major league career with the Milwaukee Braves in 1964, debuting in 19 games for the team that year. He later stayed with the franchise through its move to Atlanta before eventually joining the New York Mets.

Following a brief stint with the Mets, he settled down with the Chicago White Sox and then the California Angels, where he enjoyed his only All-Star season. Over his career, Alomar Sr. participated in 162 games, amassing 735 at-bats and posting a .251/.302/.293 slash line that included 18 doubles, two triples, two home runs, and 36 RBIs. He was known for his speed on the base paths, totaling 227 stolen bases in 1,481 games, and for his strong defensive play.

After retiring as a player, Alomar transitioned into coaching during the 1980s with the San Diego Padres, eventually serving as the team’s third base coach from 1986 to 1990. His coaching career also included time with the Chicago Cubs, Colorado Rockies, and the Mets.