Mickey Lolich, the last Major League Baseball pitcher to achieve three complete-game victories for the Detroit Tigers during the 1968 World Series, passed away at the age of 85 on Wednesday. The Tigers confirmed his death, stating that Lolich’s wife reported he had passed away following a brief period in hospice care. The exact cause of death was not disclosed.

While Denny McLain was the standout pitcher for Detroit in 1968, winning 31 regular-season games, it was Lolich who shined in the World Series, being named the Most Valuable Player with an impressive ERA of 1.67. He secured a crucial Game 7 road victory against Bob Gibson and the St. Louis Cardinals.

One of the iconic moments of that championship season was when Bill Freehan caught a foul pop-up by Tim McCarver for the final out, prompting Lolich to leap into Freehan’s arms in a jubilant celebration. Reflecting on that moment, Lolich expressed to the Detroit Free Press in 2018, “It was always somebody else, but my day had finally come.”

Lolich’s pitching prowess is highlighted by his career strikeouts, ranking 23rd with 2,832 strikeouts, surpassing many Hall of Famers. Despite facing challenges during the 1968 season, including a brief stint in the bullpen, Lolich returned to form and played a pivotal role in leading the Tigers to victory.

Pitching Game 7 with just two days of rest, Lolich displayed his resilience and determination. He was awarded a Dodge Charger GT as the Series MVP in 1968, despite expecting a Corvette from General Motors. Lolich’s legacy extends beyond his on-field achievements, as he finished his 16-year career with a record of 220-192, mostly with the Tigers, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

The Tigers expressed their condolences to Lolich’s family, emphasizing that his legacy will be fondly remembered. Following his baseball career, Lolich transitioned into the doughnut business in suburban Detroit, showcasing his versatility and adaptability beyond the baseball field.