Cannizzaro Passes

Chris Cannizzaro, an original Padres player and their first all-star, died at the age of 78:

Cannizzaro had a 13-year career as a catcher in the major leagues from 1960-74, playing for six different teams. He was honored by the Padres in a pregame ceremony over the summer during the run-up to the 2016 All-Star Game hosted at Petco Park.

Cannizzaro, 78, who lived in Rancho Penasquitos, had been suffering from emphysema in recent years.

My thoughts go out to his family and friends.

Cannizzaro was also an original member of the Mets, playing 59 games for New York in their inaugural 1962 season. He didn’t last long enough to get drafted in 1977. Offensively, he didn’t hit for a high average, but drew a good number of walks. He hit .235 for his career with a .319 OBP. (He did draw 35 IBB, which I take it to mean he was hitting in front of the pitcher frequently.) Although he made the All-Star team in 1969, 1970 would prove to be his best season as he posted a 2.3 rWAR.

He made a solid career as good backup catcher.

from baseballmusings.com http://ift.tt/2iyAPDk