(WXYZ) — Former Detroit Tigers Ace Justin Verlander is among the many people sharing out their memories after legendary Tiger Al Kaline died at the age of 85 on Monday.
"Such a kind and generous man who meant so much to so many. I hope you knew how much I enjoyed our conversations about baseball, life, or just giving each other a hard time. I am honored to have been able to call you my friend for all these years. R.I.P. Mr Tiger, Al Kaline," Verlander tweeted.
Such a kind and generous man who meant so much to so many. I hope you knew how much I enjoyed our conversations about baseball, life, or just giving each other a hard time. I am honored to have been able to call you my friend for all these years. R.I.P. Mr Tiger, Al Kaline.
— Justin Verlander (@JustinVerlander) April 6, 2020
Others are also sharing their thoughts.
Sad to hear we’ve lost a beloved member of our HOF family one of the nicest and sincere I’ve ever met Al Kaline you will be dearly missed my friend thoughts and prayers go out Louise and family RIP Al 🙏
— Wade Boggs (@ChickenMan3010) April 6, 2020
Tigers' great Al Kaline died today at age 85. An 18-time All-Star and a 10-time Gold Glove winner, Kaline retired shortly after recording his 3,000th hit in 1974 and joined the Tigers' broadcasting team.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 6, 2020
how great was Al Kaline? 1 of 6 OF to ever win 10 GG; played in at least 100 games 19 straight seasons; 18x all-star. Brooks Robinson once said of Kaline, "there have been some great defensive players, but the fella who could do everything was Al Kaline."
— Matt Shepard (@ShepMatt) April 6, 2020
Anyone that knows me knows what Al Kaline meant to me. This is by far the hardest celebrity death I’ve ever gone thru, my heart literally hurts, Al Kaline is more than baseball to me, he’s the reason my father and I have the relationship we do. Rip Mr. Tiger, I love you pic.twitter.com/UJ83whFLKk
— Ken Sledge (@KennySledge) April 6, 2020
Club Statement from the Detroit Tigers:
"It’s with a heavy heart that the Detroit Tigers confirm Al Kaline has passed away at the age of 85. One of the most distinguished and decorated players in the history of baseball, “Mr. Tiger” was one of the greatest to ever wear the Olde English ‘D’. The Hall of Famer has been a pillar of our organization for 67 years, beginning with his Major League debut in 1953 and continuing to present in his duties as Special Assistant to the General Manager. Our thoughts are with Mr. Kaline’s wife, Louise, and family now, and forever."
Statement from Detroit Tigers Chairman and CEO, Christopher Ilitch:
"Baseball lost a titan today. Anyone who knew Al Kaline would describe his gentle soul and passion for baseball as an unbelievably powerful combination, making him one of the most respected players in Major League Baseball history. My mother, father and I cherished the special relationship we had with Al Kaline, who was a trusted advisor and dear friend for many years.
His dedication to Detroit was unparalleled and he was affectionately known as ‘Mr. Tiger’. His positive contributions to the sport will forever be realized by baseball fans everywhere. The impact of his life is wide-reaching, and he will be greatly missed by millions in Detroit, the state of Michigan and across the baseball community. On behalf of everyone in the Tigers organization and the Ilitch family, we extend our deepest condolences to Al’s wife, Louise, and the entire Kaline family."
