Frank Howard, 87, former All-Star, Home Run Champ, and World Series Winner, passes away.
Remembering Frank Howard: A Baseball Legend
Frank Howard, a four-time All-Star and renowned slugger, has passed away at the age of 87. Throughout his illustrious career, Howard hit an impressive 382 home runs and even helped the Los Angeles Dodgers secure a World Series title in 1963.
The Washington Nationals, upon receiving the news from Howard’s family, expressed their condolences. Dick Bosman, a former teammate and close friend, described Howard as the “ultimate teammate” and one of the greatest individuals he has ever known.
After his successful stint with the Dodgers, Howard played seven seasons with the Washington Senators before they relocated and became the Texas Rangers. He later concluded his playing career with the Detroit Tigers.
Nationals owner Mark Lerner fondly remembered Howard as his childhood hero, admiring the towering home runs he hit at RFK Stadium. Lerner emphasized that Howard’s impact extended beyond the baseball field, highlighting his kindness and gentle nature.
Howard’s legacy includes hitting the final home run for the Senators at RFK in 1971 and the first at Arlington Stadium in 1972. The Rangers praised him as a larger-than-life personality who was adored by both teammates and fans.
Standing at an impressive 6-foot-7, Howard, affectionately known as Hondo, played nearly 1,900 regular-season games and three postseason games from 1958 to 1973. He also had brief managerial stints with the San Diego Padres and the New York Mets.
The New York Mets described Howard as an intimidating figure on the field but also as “The Gentle Giant” due to his kind and generous nature. He made significant contributions as a coach and interim manager for the team.
Bosman, who had recently spoken with Howard, expressed his shock at the news of his passing. He praised Howard’s impact both on and off the field, describing him as a mentor who taught his teammates how to carry themselves as professional baseball players.
Howard’s impressive career included leading the American League in home runs twice and holding the record for the most home runs in Washington baseball history. In 2016, he was honored by the Nationals and inducted into their ring of honor.
Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo expressed his deep respect for Howard, highlighting his contributions as both a player and a human being. Rizzo emphasized Howard’s willingness to share his knowledge and wisdom with others.
With his towering presence and exceptional skills, Howard was a force to be reckoned with as an outfielder and first baseman. Despite the team’s struggles during certain seasons, Howard consistently delivered as their best hitter.
Teammates recall Howard’s calm demeanor and his ability to lead by example. His impact extended beyond his powerful swing, as he always carried himself with grace and composure.
What were some of Frank Howard’s notable contributions to the teams he played for?
Ward the Giant, was a force to be reckoned with on the baseball field. His towering presence and powerful swing made him one of the most feared sluggers of his time. Howard’s contribution to the game of baseball and his impact on the teams he played for will forever be remembered.
Born on August 8, 1936, in Columbus, Ohio, Howard showed promise in baseball from a young age. He attended Ohio State University, where he excelled as a basketball player as well. However, it was his talent on the baseball diamond that caught the attention of professional scouts.
In 1958, Howard made his Major League Baseball debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He quickly established himself as a power hitter, garnering attention for his ability to hit mammoth home runs. Howard’s performance on the field helped the Dodgers win the World Series in 1963, solidifying his place as a baseball legend.
After his time with the Dodgers, Howard joined the Washington Senators in 1965. He spent seven fruitful seasons with the team, captivating fans with his impressive home runs and strong work ethic. Howard’s contributions to the Senators and his impact on the community did not go unnoticed. He became an idol to many aspiring young baseball players and inspired them to pursue their dreams.
In 1972, Howard’s career took him to the Texas Rangers, where he continued to make a significant impact. He hit the first home run at the newly built Arlington Stadium, further cementing his place in baseball history. Howard’s time with the Rangers showcased not only his exceptional athleticism but also his leadership qualities and dedication to the game.
Throughout his career, Howard earned numerous accolades and honors, including four All-Star selections and two home run titles. His remarkable power and ability to hit for distance made him a true legend of the game. But it was his humility and kindness off the field that endeared him to fans, teammates, and opponents alike.
Frank Howard’s legacy extends beyond his statistics and accomplishments as a baseball player. He was a beloved figure in the baseball community, known for his generosity and willingness to give back. Even after retiring from the game, Howard remained involved in baseball as a coach and mentor to young players.
On November 19, 2023, the baseball world mourned the loss of Frank Howard. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of fans and the baseball community as a whole. However, his impact
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