Date of Birth: January 17, 1931
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Date of Death: June 4, 2014
Biography
Donald William Zimmer, commonly known as Don Zimmer, was an iconic figure in the world of baseball, both as a player and a manager. Born on January 17, 1931, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Zimmer’s career in Major League Baseball (MLB) spanned over six decades. He began his professional journey as an infielder, playing for teams like the Brooklyn Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, New York Mets, Cincinnati Reds, and Washington Senators. However, it was his post-playing career that solidified his legacy. Zimmer worked as a coach and manager for several teams, most notably the Boston Red Sox, Texas Rangers, and New York Yankees. He was known for his strategic mind, colorful personality, and deep love for the game. Zimmer passed away on June 4, 2014, in Dunedin, Florida, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire baseball enthusiasts.
5 Interesting Facts about Don Zimmer
1. Don Zimmer was involved in professional baseball for 66 consecutive years, a testament to his dedication to the sport.
2. Zimmer survived a near-fatal beaning incident in 1953, which led to the installation of batting helmets in Major League Baseball.
3. He was part of the Brooklyn Dodgers team that won the World Series in 1955, marking their first championship in franchise history.
4. Zimmer served as Joe Torre’s bench coach for the New York Yankees, contributing to their four World Series titles between 1996 and 2000.
5. In addition to his MLB career, Zimmer also managed in the minor leagues and in Japan, showcasing his versatility and expertise in baseball management.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Don Zimmer
1. “What you lack in talent can be made up with desire, hustle, and giving 110 percent all the time.”
2. “I never questioned the integrity of an umpire. Their eyesight, yes.”
3. “The only thing that keeps this organization from being recognized as one of the finest in baseball is wins and losses at the major league level.”
4. “Baseball is a game of inches. Sometimes they’re inches you can’t see.”
5. “I may not be the best manager, but I’ve never lost to a manager who was better dressed than me.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
The highest net worth Don Zimmer achieved was estimated to be around $10 million.
Children
Don Zimmer had two children with his wife, Jean (Soot) Zimmer: a son, Thomas Zimmer, and a daughter, Donna Zimmer.
Relevant Links
1. [Don Zimmer Biography on MLB](https://www.mlb.com/news/don-zimmer-passes-away-at-83/c77089950
2. [Don Zimmer’s Career Statistics](https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/z/zimmedo01.shtml
5. [Don Zimmer’s Legacy in Baseball](https://www.si.com/mlb/2014/06/04/don-zimmer-obit
