LAS VEGAS (AP) - Bill Robinson, who played on Pittsburgh's 1979 World Series championship team and was working as the Los Angeles Dodgers' minor league hitting coordinator, died Sunday. He was 64.
Robinson was in Las Vegas to visit the Dodgers' minor league team and was supposed to meet De Jon Watson, Dodger director of player development, to drive to the ballpark together.
But Robinson failed to show up at the appointed time and he was found dead in his hotel room, Dodgers spokesman Josh Rawitch said. The official cause of death was pending, he said.
"Bill was a wonderful family man and a great baseball player, coach, manager and friend to everyone he met," Dodger general manager Ned Colletti said. "Even though he never played for the Dodgers, it was an honor that he chose to be a part of the organization. Everyone he came into contact with was better for having known him."
Robinson was in his second season with the Dodgers after spending four years on the Florida Marlins' coaching staff, where he served as hitting coach for the 2003 world champions.
He was hitting coach for the New York Mets from 1984-89, including their 1986 World Series title.
"On behalf of the entire Mets organization, we send our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathies to Bill's wife, Mary and the Robinson family," Mets chief operating officer Jeff Wilpon said in a statement. "As hitting coach, he played an integral role in the 1986 Mets world championship. More importantly, he was a devoted family man, a consummate professional and one of the classiest men in our sport."
Robinson played in the majors from 1966-83, with 1,127 hits, 166 home runs and 641 RBI as an outfielder for Atlanta, the New York Yankees, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. He batted .264 with 24 homers and 75 RBIs for the Pirates in '79.
Robinson also served as a minor league hitting coach for the Yankees and was a minor league coach and manager in Philadelphia's farm system. He managed in the Venezuelan League and was an analyst for ESPN's "Baseball Tonight" in 1990-91.
Robinson is survived by his wife Mary Alice, a son and a daughter.
Services were pending.
Copyright © 2007 The Associated Press
Ronnie Robinson / no not Professor Robinson CYO theguy that lent his name the bay city rollers crowl it / my condolonces / wilma and rudy torg / yea i saw mark taday not lennie / champion no jordens you broke it now whatt iddi
bernie campbell
October 28, 2024 | Richmond, NY | Student
Remember the summer he played for the Yankees when he and another rookie named Steve Whitaker hit extremely well. Bill was part of the great Pirates "We are family" team and had a fine career. His life was too short.
Elliott Shyer
November 30, 2013 | Granby, CT
MEMORY ETERNAL!
Nick Gamvas
April 07, 2011 | Fitchburg, MA
Our deepest sympathies go out to the Robinson & Johnson family. You're in our thoughts and prayers.
Evan, Vonda & Ryan Holmes
August 05, 2007 | Newark, DE
Our deepest sympathies and prayers to the Robinson Family, to Jackie and Weldon in perfect peace.
Vince & Jo Tilghman
August 04, 2007 | San Diego, CA
I am in shock about Bill's passing. He was my all time favorite ballplayer. Being a lifelong Pirates fan, especially in the 70's as a child, he was my inspiration. Like him, I was also considered a "utility" player and often called upon to play several different positions.
I got to meet him when he was coaching for the Red Barons in Scranton. We chatted for a while and I got his autography. He was taken aback to find out he was someones favorite. Humble to the last!
Because of...
Michael Ferrara
August 02, 2007 | West Pittston, PA
To the Robinson family:
I was stunned when I learned of Bill's death. My condolences to all of you. Take comfort in knowing that he was universally respected and admired, not only for his baseball skills, but for being a decent human being. May God's love console you during this time of sadness.
Abraham Allende
August 02, 2007 | Canton, OH
Very sorry about your great loss! Sincere sympathy, Pat - R.N. and fan
Patsy Jo Reed Sircy
August 02, 2007 | Gainesboro, TN
So sorry to hear this news. Mr. Robinson was very kind to me when I was a kid, working at Three Rivers Stadium. He was a great man and one of my personal favorites. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Mark Washington
August 01, 2007 | Washington, DC
