Rich Dauer, an infielder who spent a decade in the major leagues and won a World Series as a player for Baltimore and a coach for Houston, has died. He was 72.
The Orioles announced Dauer’s death on Monday. They did not reveal the reason of death.
“Richie Dauer, my long-time teammate, has passed away. “Was part of the Oriole way, where you didn’t have to be a star to help the Orioles win,” Hall of Fame pitcher Jim Palmer wrote on social media. “Richie had an engaging charm that kept us casual but motivated. Another reason why I consider myself extremely fortunate to be a lifelong Oriole. RIP.”
Dauer, the Astros’ first base coach, underwent emergency surgery for a blood clot in his head shortly after winning the World Series in 2017. MLB.com stated in 2023 that he had recently suffered a major stroke.
“Baseball has brought amazing people into my life.” “I loved him when he coached me and learnt from him when he was on my staff in Houston,” said A.J. Hinch, former Astros manager. “RIP, dear friend. “And thank you for being yourself.”
Dauer played for the Orioles from 1976 to 1985. He homered to open the scoring in Game 7 of the 1979 World Series against Pittsburgh, but the Pirates rallied to win. Baltimore returned to the World Series in 1983, defeating Philadelphia.
Dauer joined the Orioles Hall of Fame in 2012. Dauer was also named to the College Baseball Hall of Fame’s 2021 Class. He helped Southern California win national championships in 1973 and 1974.