Lenny Randle, a 12-year Major League Baseball veteran known for his diverse talents and colorful personality, has passed away at the age of 75. He died Sunday at his home in Murrieta, California, with his son Bradley confirming the news on Tuesday. Bradley added that the cause of death was requested not to be disclosed by Randle’s wife, Linda.
Randle made his mark in college sports by helping Arizona State win the 1969 College World Series, also playing football for the school. He was selected 10th overall in the 1970 amateur draft by Washington and debuted with the Senators on June 16, 1971, collecting his first hit against Vida Blue.
Over his career, Randle played for the Senators/Rangers (1971-76), Mets (1977-78), Yankees (1979), Cubs (1980), and Mariners (1981-82), with a .257 batting average, 27 home runs, 322 RBIs, and 156 stolen bases.
However, Randle became more famous for his offbeat moments than his on-field performance. He was dubbed “The Most Interesting Man in Baseball” by Rolling Stone, a title that continued to resonate in an MLB Network documentary in 2015.
Notable moments in his career included being on the field for the Senators’ last game in 1971 when fans stormed the field, sparking a brawl in 1974 after a bunt against Milt Wilcox, and participating in the infamous Ten Cent Beer Night riot in Cleveland later that season.
Randle also found himself at the center of a blackout at Shea Stadium in 1977, replaced Thurman Munson on the Yankees after the catcher’s tragic death in 1979, and became part of another odd moment in 1981 when he blew on a slow roller that was ruled a hit.
Randle’s career also included a notorious incident in 1977 when he punched Texas Rangers manager Frank Lucchesi, fracturing his cheekbone. Randle, upset after losing his second base job, demanded a trade, leading to the altercation.
He was suspended for 30 days, fined, and had part of his salary withheld. He later faced felony battery charges, pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor, and was fined. His Rangers career ended with that incident, and he was traded to the Mets.
Lenny Randle
After his time with the Mets, Randle played briefly for the Giants, was traded to Pittsburgh, and was signed by the Yankees in 1979. After leaving the Mariners, he became the first American to play in Italy’s baseball league, joining Nettuno in 1983. He later described his time in Italy as a rejuvenating experience, free from the stress of the major leagues.
In addition to his baseball career, Randle performed stand-up comedy and released a funk song titled “Kingdome” with his group, Lenny Randle & the Ballplayers.
Randle is survived by his wife, Linda, three sons, Bradley, Kumasi, and Ahmad, and three grandchildren. A celebration of his life is planned.
Leave a Reply