Joe Pepitone.Photo: Focus on Sport/Getty Images
Joe Pepitone, a popular MLB player who played in two World Series for the New York Yankees and won three Gold Gloves at first base, has died. He was 82.
The formerYankee died at his homein Kansas City, Mo, according to theNew York Times. Pepitone’s son Bill told the outlet that he and his sister found their father dead on Monday morning and that the cause of death is currently unknown. He added that it appeared to be a sudden event, such as a heart attack.
TheYankees also shared a statementon Monday, confirming the news.
Pepitone joined the Yankees in 1962 and was immediately a fan favorite. After his rookie season, he took over first base and soon became the star of the team, making three consecutive all-star teams from 1963-1965 and consistently hitting home runs (27 in 1963, 28 in 1964, 18 in 1965 and 31 in 1966.)
Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
Despite his athletic feats, the three-time all-star joined the team just as it started to flounder. After winning 10 World Series in the previous 16 seasons, the Yankees lost to the Dodgers in 1963 in a clean sweep and then lost again in 1964 to the Cardinals, the NYTimes noted. As a result, Pepitone ended his career without winning a championship.
Before he left the big leagues, he also had stints with the Houston Astros, Chicago Cubs, and the Atlanta Braves.
Joe Pepitone.Bruce Glikas/FilmMagic
The popular player remained a pop culture reference with his name regularly cited on hit shows likeThe Golden Girls,Seinfeld,Curb Your Enthusiasm, andThe Sopranos.
source: people.com
