Former player caught All-Star Don Leppert passed away at the age of 91, Pirates announced this afternoon.
“We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Don Leppert,” said team president Travis Williams. “He touched many lives during his 40+ years of baseball and was a key part of the Pirates’ coaching staff during the 1971 World Series championship season. Our hearts go out to his wife Daphine. and the entire Leppert family.“
A native of Indianapolis, Leppert (not to be confused with Midfielder of the 1950s eponymous) began his professional career at the age of 23 in 1955. The right-handed player first hit the professional leagues until 1961. As a 29-year-old rookie, he made connections. with three home runs in 22 games. Leppert appeared in 45 competitions for Pittsburgh the following season. He joined the Washington Senators the following year, which was the best season of his career. The 6’2″ backpoint hit 0.237/.305/.375 in 73 games, helping him land an All-Star title in the process.
After struggling for 50 games the following season, Leppert spent two years in Triple-A. He retired as a player after the 1966 campaign. While Leppert only appeared in 190 games across parts of four major league seasons, he earned a spot in the Midsummer Classic and started his career. beginning a long career at the professional level. He started management in the Pirates system in 1967 and was promoted to MLB staff the following year. Leppert will also spend time with the Blue Jays, Astros, and Twins over the next few decades.
MLBTR sends our condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.
