New details emerge about ex-MLB star Lenny Randle’s tragic death after passing at 75
Former MLB star Lenny Randle died Sunday while at his home in Murrieta, it was revealed.
Randle’s death at the age of 75 was announced late Monday night by his former team, the Seattle Mariners — the last team he ever played for in the major leagues.
The former second and third baseman is best remembered for his six-year stint with the Texas Rangers, where he was infamously suspended for punching manager Frank Lucchesi.
One of Randle’s sons, Bradley, revealed on New Year’s Eve that he had died in front of his home on Sunday.
However, Bradley also said that his father’s wife, Linda, asked that the cause of death not be made public.
Randle was a beloved figure in baseball, and tributes poured in for the longtime infielder after news of his death spread on social media.
Former MLB star Lenny Randle died Sunday at the age of 75 at his home in Murrieta
Confirming the news, the Mariners wrote on X: “We are saddened by the passing of former Mariner Lenny Randle. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and loved ones.”
“The Hall of Fame commemorates 12-year big league veteran Lenny Randle, who passed away at the age of 75,” the official X of the National Baseball Hall of Fame also announced.
Baseball writer Rocco Constantino said: “Really sad to hear of Lenny Randle’s passing. Guy was such a great character and a solid player. He absolutely loved baseball and remained active throughout his life. Plus, he starred in this fantastic Mariners jacket commercial. RIP Lenny Randle.”
Randle made his MLB debut in 1971 with the then Washington Senators after being drafted by the organization the year before.
Three years later was his breakout season in the major leagues, and perhaps his most famous moment.
During a May 1974 game against the then Indians, Cleveland pitcher Milt Wilcox threw a pitch behind him.
The wife of the Texas Rangers hero has asked that his cause of death not be made public
Randle then bunted the next pitch down the first base line. As Wilcox attempted to pick up the ball and throw it to the first baseman for an out, he deliberately ran off the baseline and viciously knocked Wilcox to the turf, leading to a bench-clearing brawl.
He was perhaps as well known for his fiery attempt to blow a bunt past the foul on third base, which he did successfully, as a member of the Mariners in May 1981.
The officials overturned the call and ruled the ball fair. After that game, Randle said MLB had implemented a no-blow rule because of his actions.
After retiring from the MLB following the 1982 season, Randle played one season professionally in Italy and won a Serie A batting title.