January 21 will remain a sad day for the athletics world as their all-star icon, Sal Bando, passed on after a five-year battle with cancer.
Keep reading for all the details.
RIP Sal Bando: Three-Time World Series Champion With A's Dynasty Dies At 78
Getty | Mitchell Layton
Bando Led His Team To Victory
Flickr | tibob1
Sal Bando, the Athletics team captain that won back-to-back World Series championships in the 1970s, passed away at age 78.
Before working as Milwaukee's general manager from 1991 to 1999, the former third baseman, a four-time All-Star, previously played for the Royals and Brewers.
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The Announcing Of His Passing
The Bando family, according to The New York Post, issued a statement;
“It is with a heavy heart, the Bando family is sad to announce the passing of its beloved husband and father, Sal, who last night lost his battle with cancer that began over five years ago,Sandy, Sal’s wife of 54 years, and sons Sal Jr., Sonny and Stef, send their love to family, friends and fans who mourn the loss of a humble and faithful man.”
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A Successful Career
Bando was a key player for the Athletics in the center of a lineup that included Joe Rudi and Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson.
In the three years that Oakland won the World Series, from 1972 to 1974, he was selected to the American League All-Star team. According to ESPN, he came in the top five in the voting for AL MVP three times.
Leading Extra Hits
According to Baseball-Reference.com, the former Arizona State University star batted around .287 in 1973 and led the A.L. in extra-base hits (64), doubles (32), and total bases (295).
Leading Major Leagues
Ny post | Sal Bando/ Ny post
Bando played in the major leagues for 16 seasons, from 1966 to 1981, batting .254 with 242 home runs and 1,039 RBIs.
His Influential Year In The Sport
His most influential years in an Athletics uniform occurred between 1971 and 1975, during the Swingin' A's era that saw three consecutive World Series championships and two additional visits to the ALCS.
Each Year's Win
Giphy
Bando finished third in 1974, fourth in 1973, and second in 1971 regarding the MVP vote.
Honoring Their Leader
Additionally, the Athletics honored the leader of a colorful dynasty that featured players like Reggie Jackson, Joe Rudi, Bert "Campy" Campaneris, and pitchers Jim "Catfish" Hunter, Vida Blue, and Rollie Fingers.
The Team's Tribute
The squad expressed sadness at learning of Athletics Hall of Famer Sal Bando's demise. Four-time All-Star Captain Sal, known to the A's faithful as "Captain Sal," guided the Club to three straight World Series victories. They added;
" Our deepest condolences are to his family, friends, and fans."
Leaving The Court To The Brewers Office
Unsplash | Olena Sergienko
After finishing his playing career, Bando worked in baseball as a commentator and general manager for the Brewers from 1991 to 1999.
Worked With The Brewers
Bando also worked with the Brewers as a special assistant before being promoted to general manager of Milwaukee in late 1991.
Only One Successful Season In His Reign
Flickr | hershmangary
The Brewers only had one successful season in their eight years as the organization's top decision-maker, in 1992.
Making It To Wall Of Honor
In 2014, he was added to the group's Wall of Honor.
Bando Is Survived By His Wife And Children
Flickr | vpking
Bando left behind his three boys as well as Sandy, his wife of 54 years.
