A former MLB outfielder and coach who managed the Baltimore Orioles, known for his playing career with the New York Mets and Yankees.
Lee Mazzilli is a name synonymous with excellence in baseball, known for his exceptional skills as a switch-hitter and his impressive career as a player, coach, and manager in Major League Baseball (MLB). With a career spanning over three decades, Mazzilli has left an indelible mark on the sport, earning him a special place in the hearts of baseball enthusiasts.
Born on March 25, 1955, in Brooklyn, New York, Mazzilli was the son of welterweight boxer Libero Mazzilli and his wife, June. The younger Mazzilli was an athletic prodigy, excelling in multiple sports, including speed skating, where he won eight national championships.
After graduating from Brooklyn's Lincoln High School in 1973, Mazzilli was selected as the first-round pick (14th overall) by the New York Mets in the MLB draft. He began his professional career in the minor leagues, where he set a California League record for most stolen bases in a game (seven) in 1975.
Mazzilli's talent, charm, and Brooklyn roots made him an instant fan favorite in New York City. In 1979, he had his breakout season, leading the Mets with 4.7 fWAR, 137 WRC, 181 hits, and 79 runs batted in (RBIs). He also walked 93 times while striking out only 74 times, earning him a spot at the All-Star Game in Seattle.
In the All-Star Game, Mazzilli etched his name in history by hitting a game-tying solo home run in the eighth inning and drawing a bases-loaded walk in the ninth to bring in the winning run, securing a 7-6 victory for the National League.
After retiring as a player in 1989, Mazzilli transitioned to coaching and managing. He served as a coach for the New York Yankees from 2000 to 2003 and in 2006. In 2004, he took the reins as the manager of the Baltimore Orioles, a position he held until 2005.
Lee Mazzilli's remarkable career has left a lasting impact on baseball. His ambidextrous batting style, speed, and clutch performances have inspired generations of players. As a coach and manager, he has shared his expertise, helping shape the careers of numerous baseball talents.
In the world of baseball, Mazzilli's name is synonymous with excellence, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of players and fans alike.
67 Years Old
Former catcher and manager who led the Anaheim Angels to their first World Series title in 2002, known for his innovative defensive strategies and leadership.
67 Years Old
Hall of Fame second baseman and manager known for his exceptional defensive skills and leadership on the field. He won nine Gold Glove Awards and was named the National League's Most Valuable Player in 1984.
77 Years Old
A legendary baseball player and manager who led three teams to the playoffs and won multiple division titles, known for his consistent success and iconic toothpick-chewing habit.
82 Years Old
Legendary baseball figure who won three World Series titles and managed over 5,000 games, earning him a spot in the Hall of Fame.
70 Years Old
A seasoned baseball leader with a storied career, guiding teams to postseason success and earning multiple Manager of the Year awards. Known for his old-school style and ability to get the most out of his players.
86 Years Old
Legendary baseball figure who played, managed, and executive-led teams to multiple championships, earning a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame.
85 Years Old
Legendary baseball figure who won more games than any other manager in history, leading the Atlanta Braves to 15 division titles and a World Series championship.
83 Years Old
A former outfielder and successful manager, known for his fiery personality and leading the Cincinnati Reds to a World Series title in 1990. He's a beloved figure in baseball history.
