Sandy Alomar Sr., a former Major League Baseball All-Star second baseman and longtime coach whose influence stretched across generations of players, has died at the age of 81.
The news was confirmed Monday by Major League Baseball and the Alomar family. A cause of death was not immediately disclosed, but sources close to the family said he passed away peacefully in his hometown of Salinas, Puerto Rico.
A Trailblazing Career
Born Santos Alomar on October 19, 1943, in Salinas, Puerto Rico, Alomar broke into the majors in 1964 with the Milwaukee Braves. Over a remarkable 15-year career, he played for six teams — the Braves, New York Mets, Chicago White Sox, California Angels, New York Yankees, and Texas Rangers — earning a reputation as one of the game’s most durable and consistent infielders.
He enjoyed his best years with the California Angels, where he was named an American League All-Star in 1970 and became known for his defensive prowess and reliability. That same year, Alomar led the league in at-bats and was one of only a handful of players in Angels history to play all 162 games in a single season — a feat he achieved twice.
While not a power hitter, Alomar was an exceptional contact hitter and base runner, posting a lifetime .245 batting average with 227 stolen bases over 1,300 games. His steady presence on the field and leadership in the clubhouse earned him admiration from teammates and coaches alike.
From Player to Mentor
Following his retirement as a player in 1978, Alomar transitioned into coaching, embarking on a second act that would span more than three decades. He served as a respected instructor and coach for several major league clubs, including the San Diego Padres, Chicago Cubs, Colorado Rockies, and New York Mets.
In Puerto Rico, Alomar was also deeply involved in the winter leagues, where he managed and mentored many young players who would go on to achieve success in the majors. His guidance and leadership made him a beloved figure in Puerto Rican baseball circles.
“He was more than a coach — he was a teacher, a leader, and a father figure to so many,” said Tony Clark, executive director of the MLB Players Association. “Sandy Alomar Sr. helped pave the way for generations of Latino players and left a legacy that extends far beyond the field.”
A Baseball Family
Alomar’s passion for the game was inherited by his sons, who followed in his footsteps to achieve baseball greatness.
His eldest son, Sandy Alomar Jr., was a six-time All-Star catcher and is currently a coach with the Cleveland Guardians. His younger son, Roberto Alomar, became one of the greatest second basemen in MLB history, earning 12 All-Star selections, 10 Gold Gloves, and a 2011 induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Together, the Alomars became one of the most accomplished families in the history of baseball — a rare dynasty spanning multiple generations of the sport.
Tributes Pour In
Teams across the league paid tribute to Alomar’s contributions both on and off the field.
The Los Angeles Angels, where Alomar spent some of his most memorable seasons, released a statement calling him “a cornerstone of Angels history and a true ambassador for the game.”
The Cleveland Guardians also honored the elder Alomar, saying, “His impact on baseball and on his family’s incredible legacy will never be forgotten.”
Fans and former players from Puerto Rico to the mainland U.S. shared heartfelt memories online, praising his humility, mentorship, and devotion to the sport.
A Legacy Beyond Numbers
Though his career statistics tell one story, Sandy Alomar Sr.’s legacy is defined by his character, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to baseball.
He bridged generations — from the early wave of Puerto Rican pioneers in MLB to today’s stars — and embodied the values of perseverance, respect, and family.
As the baseball world mourns his loss, it also celebrates a life that helped shape the game for more than half a century.
Sandy Alomar Sr. is survived by his wife, María, his sons Sandy Jr. and Roberto, and several grandchildren. Funeral services will be held in Puerto Rico later this week.
“Sandy Alomar Sr. was baseball royalty — but more importantly, he was a man of grace, dignity, and love for the game,” said MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred. “The sport is better because he was part of it.”
