legendary power hitter and former American League home run leader, has passed away at the age of 91. A six-time All-Star, Colavito made his mark as a key slugger for the Cleveland Guardians (formerly Indians) and other American League teams during the 1950s and 1960s. His career included a controversial trade to the Detroit Tigers after a stellar 42-home-run season in 1959, orchestrated by Cleveland GM Frank “Trader” Lane.
“Cleveland Indians legend Rocky Colavito has died at the age of 91,” reported Associated Press sportswriter Tom Withers.
The Guardians honored Colavito’s legacy with a statement on social media, saying:
“The Cleveland Guardians are deeply saddened by the loss of Rocky Colavito. Beloved by fans, Rocky spent eight of his fourteen MLB seasons with Cleveland. He represented the club in three All-Star Games while finishing top-5 in MVP voting on three occasions.”
From 1956 to 1966, Colavito amassed 358 home runs while playing for the Guardians/Indians and Tigers, consistently hitting at least 20 home runs each season. He ranks alongside legends like Frank Robinson, Hank Aaron, Mickey Mantle, and Willie Mays for his power during that era.
In total, Colavito hit 374 career home runs, placing him 81st on the all-time leaderboard, ahead of Gil Hodges and just behind Carlton Fisk and Mike Trout. He remains one of only 16 players since 1900 to hit four home runs in a single game. Remarkably, he achieved this milestone in back-to-back seasons, 1958 and 1959. He ranks 12th in Guardians franchise history for home runs, OPS, and slugging percentage, with 190 homers during his time in Cleveland.
Colavito also excelled during his tenure with the Tigers, delivering 45 home runs, 140 RBIs, and 113 walks in a single season. Over his 14-year career, he totaled 1,730 hits, 1,159 RBIs, and an impressive .848 OPS.
After retiring as a player, Colavito worked as a broadcaster and coach for the Indians and Royals. In 2006, he was inducted into the Cleveland Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the game’s greats.
Rocky Colavito’s contributions to baseball and his impact on fans will not be forgotten.
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