Mickey Lolich, the legendary Tigers pitcher, has passed away at the age of 85. His remarkable career was defined by his unwavering durability and excellence, making him an iconic figure in Tigers history. With 16 seasons in the big leagues, Lolich's first 13 years (1963-75) were spent with the Tigers, where he set records for innings pitched and strikeouts. His 1971 season, in particular, was extraordinary, as he threw an astonishing 376 innings and struck out 308 batters. Despite his remarkable achievements, Lolich's secret to longevity might have been a mishap from his childhood. At age 2, he broke his left collarbone, which led to him throwing left-handed. This unique structure and his ability to handle high workloads were key to his success. Lolich's career was not without interruptions, including his annual summer duty with the Michigan National Guard and his love for motorcycles. Despite these distractions, he remained a prolific and powerful pitcher. His October heroics in 1968, including a seven-game World Series triumph over the St. Louis Cardinals, cemented his legacy. After his retirement, Lolich enjoyed a new life in Macomb County, running a doughnut shop and spending time with his family. His impact on the Tigers and baseball will forever be remembered.
