URGENT UPDATE: Former Chicago Cubs outfielder Carlos Lezcano has tragically passed away at the age of 69 following a long battle with cancer. The announcement came just hours ago, sending shockwaves through the baseball community.
According to Puerto Rican outlet primerahora.com, Lezcano’s death has ignited an outpouring of tributes, including a heartfelt message from Leones del Caracas, where he served as a manager and coach. “To all his family and loved ones, our most sincere condolences,” the team expressed in a statement on social media.
Born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, Lezcano made his Major League Baseball debut with the Cubs in 1980. He was the cousin of fellow player Sixto Lezcano, who debuted with the Milwaukee Brewers six years earlier. Despite starting as the Opening Day center fielder, Lezcano faced challenges at the plate, ending his rookie season with a batting average of just .205 over 42 games.
Lezcano played only seven games in the majors during the following season before spending the majority of his career in the minor leagues. He faced multiple challenges, including a stint with the Oakland Athletics and the Detroit Tigers, before ultimately retiring as a player.
After stepping off the field, Lezcano transitioned into coaching and management, marking a significant impact in minor league baseball. He took his first managerial position in 1992 with the Mariners’ affiliate in the Arizona Summer League. Throughout his career, he focused on mentoring young athletes, including a young Alex Rodriguez with the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers.
Lezcano’s accolades include being named the Manager of the Year in the Puerto Rico Winter League after the 1998-99 season. His legacy extends beyond the field, with numerous contributions to the development of future baseball stars.
His final managerial role in affiliated baseball was with the Lake Elsinore Storm from 2007-2011. Even after that, he continued to influence the game through various managing positions in independent leagues and the Puerto Rican Winter League.
As tributes continue to pour in, the baseball world mourns the loss of a dedicated player, manager, and mentor. The impact of Carlos Lezcano’s life and career will resonate in the hearts of many.
For ongoing coverage and updates on this developing story, stay tuned as more tributes and memories of Lezcano emerge.