Aurelio Rodriguez
Blessed with sharp reflexes, range, and a rocket of a throwing arm, Aurelio Rodriguez survived 17 seasons in the big leagues because of his stellar defense at third base. He rarely put up good offensive numbers (he hit below .240 in eight seasons and had mediocre power), but he gained a reputation as a clutch hitter who put the ball in play. Popular everywhere he played, Rodriguez spent nine seasons in a Detroit uniform, and won his only Gold Glove for the Tigers, in 1976.
| Career Batting Stats |
| G |
AB |
H |
R |
HR |
RBI |
SB |
AVG |
SLG |
OBP |
OPS |
OPS+ |
| 2017 |
6611 |
1570 |
612 |
124 |
648 |
35 |
.237 |
.351 |
.275 |
.626 |
89.0 |
|
Aurelio Rodriguez Teammates
Best Season: 1970
Rodriguez didn't let the trade that sent him from the Angels to the Senators dampen his spirit. He hit a career-high 19 homers (all with Washington) and netted 83 RBI, also a career-best. He was not yet a complete third baseman, but his arm was as strong as ever and he had great range.
The Tragic Death of Aurelio Rodriguez
After nine solid seasons with the Detroit Tigers, Aurelio Rodriguez was one of the most beloved players in that city. Though he wasn;t a superstar, he was a great defensive third baseman, and his big smile and positive attitude were legendary. Unfortunately, his fans were forced to deal with his death in a very tragic manner.
On September 23, 2000, Ridriguez was in Detroit for a business meeting. He still made his home in his native Mexico, but returned to Detroit on occasion. As he walked the sidewalk with friends in downtown Detroit, a car swirved off the street and ran him over, killing him. The driver of the car had suffered a stroke. Rodriguez was dead at the age of 52. His funeral in Mexico was attended by thousands of people, including the president of that country. He was one of the mostb popular players to come out of Mexico.
The Dropoff
To the surprise of almost everyone, Rodriguez was leading the American League in batting after the first month of the 1978 season, with a .409 mark. Rodriguez credited much of his success to Gates Brown, the Tigers new hitting coach. But in May, he experienced a drastic dropoff, with his average that month plummeting to .208. Manager Ralph Houk announced that he would platoon Rodriguez and young third baseman Phil Mankowski. Aurelio finished the year at .265, which was roughly 30 points above his career mark.
Born
Aurelio (Ituarte Jr.) Rodriguez was born on December 28, 1947, in Cananea, 26.
Died
September 23, 2000, Detroit, MI
Batted: Right
Threw: Right
Major League Debut
9 1,
Nine Other Players Who Debuted in 1967
Reggie Jackson
Graig Nettles
Rod Carew
Johnny Bench
Tom Seaver
Jerry Koosman
Amos Otis
Sparky Lyle
Aurelio Rodriguez
Family Tree
Early in his career, Rodriguez received a scented letter every day from his girlfriend in Mexico. The two were married in December of 1971.
Related Players
In 1976, Aurelio Rodriguez won the Gold Glove Award in the American League, breaking Brooks Robinson's string of 16 straight at third base.
Post-Season Appearances
1972 American League Championship Series
1980 American League Championship Series
1981 American League Championship Series
1981 World Series
1983 American League Championship Series
Awards and Honors
1976 AL Gold Glove
Injuries and Explanation for Missed Playing Time
Playing third for the San Diego Padres in April 17, 1980, Rodriguez fielded a throw from the outfield to tag out Billy North as he tried to advance on a single. North's elbow struck Rodriguez in the face, breaking his nose.
Hitting Streaks
16 games (1968)
Best Strength as a Player
For most of his career, his throwing arm was the strongest of any infielder in baseball.
Largest Weakness as a Player
By his own admission, Rodriguez was prone to chase bad pitches.
Learn More about Aurelio Rodriguez
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