Major League Baseball mourns the loss of Lenny Randle, a former infielder who played for five teams over 12 seasons, including the Washington Senators (later the Texas Rangers), New York Mets, New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, and the Seattle Mariners, where he finished his career. The Mariners announced his passing on Monday; Randle was 75 years old.
The Mariners expressed their condolences on social media, stating, "We are saddened by the passing of former Mariner Lenny Randle. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and loved ones." The Baseball Hall of Fame also paid tribute to Randle online.
Over his career, Randle achieved a .257 batting average and 322 RBIs. His most successful season was in 1974 with the Rangers, boasting a .302 average, 17 doubles, and four triples, a performance that earned him American League MVP votes.
However, Randle's career was also marked by controversy. In 1974, a bunt play and subsequent collision with Cleveland Indians pitcher Milt Wilcox led to a bench-clearing brawl, an incident considered a precursor to the infamous 10 Cent Beer Night riot days later. Another altercation arose during spring training with then-Rangers manager Frank Lucchesi, resulting in assault charges against Randle and a lawsuit from Lucchesi. This incident led to Randle's trade to the Mets.
A memorable, albeit unusual, play occurred in 1981 while Randle was with the Mariners. When Kansas City Royals outfielder Amos Otis hit a slow roller down the third base line, Randle dropped to his hands and knees and attempted to blow the ball foul. While the ball did go foul, Otis was awarded first base after a protest.
After his major league career, Randle continued playing in Italy and later in a senior league.
