MLB News: Former Dodger Bill Buckner Passes Away at 69
Some sad news to report as former Dodger Bill Buckner has passed away at the age of 69.
Bill Buckner passed away early the morning of May 27th surrounded by his family. Bill fought with courage and grit as he did all things in life. Our hearts are broken but we are at peace knowing he is in the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."
Bill was 69.— Jeremy Schaap (@JeremySchaap) May 27, 2019
He was a 2nd-round draft pick of the Dodgers in 1968 and made his debut with the club the next season.
Buckner battled dementia for a large duration of his life.
Bill Buckner played for five different teams: the Dodgers (1969-1976), Cubs (1977-1984), Red Sox (1984-1987, 1990), Angels (1987-1988), and the Royals (1988-1989). Across 22 major league seasons, Buckner crushed 174 home runs and finished with a career batting average of .289. He was named an All-Star in 1981 with the Chicago Cubs after batting .324. Buckner received MVP votes in 5 different seasons.
As a member of the Dodgers specifically, Buckner hit 38 home runs and stole 93 bases on the way to a .289 batting average in 7 seasons.
Buckner also accomplished the impressive feat of having more walks than strikeouts in a season on 9 occasions.
Many will remember Buckner for his error in the 1986 World Series that proved costly for the Boston Red Sox, but he should be remembered for his fantastic career that was both lengthy and productive.
Please don’t remember that one error don’t forget he was playing on bad ankles good by my friend I love you