UL Washington, the former MLB shortstop who was famous for having a toothpick in his mouth throughout his 11-season career, died Sunday after a battle with cancer. He was 70 years old.
Washington's death was first reported by canadian baseball network, former teammates expressed their condolences on social media. George Brett was one of them.
“I am so sorry to hear that my friend and teammate UL Washington passed away from cancer. He was a great player and I will always be grateful for his time with the Royals.” I have written Bullet from X. (Related: Former South Carolina football star DJ Park dies at 29)
from 1977-1987, Washington suited up for the Kansas City Royals, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Montreal Expos. He played in 907 career games, hitting 27 home runs, 255 RBIs, and hitting .251. In 1980, Washington helped lead Kansas City to the American League pennant. In that series against the New York Yankees, Washington batted .364 with one RBI and a double.
The Royals advanced to the World Series against the Philadelphia Phillies, but lost in six games.
The Hall of Fame induction is in memory of Royals, Expos and Pirates shortstop UL Washington, who passed away Sunday. https://t.co/8hZi3cynQB pic.twitter.com/kaWrgxC3bP
— National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum ⚾ (@baseballhall) March 4, 2024
Washington was loved by fans, mainly because he played baseball with a toothpick in his mouth.In an interview with kansas city starWashington said he used toothpicks because he didn't like the burning sensation of cigarettes.
In 1980, there was intense discussion about the possibility of MLB issuing a ban and eliminating toothpicks, but fortunately for Washington, that did not happen.
