Jeff Torborg

Jeff Torborg Yankees postcard (cropped)

Jeff Torborg

Jeffrey Allen Torborg (born November 26, 1941) is a former Major League Baseball (MLB) catcher and manager. He played for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the California Angels during his playing career and later managed several MLB teams.

Early Life and Education

Torborg was born in Plainfield, New Jersey. He attended Rutgers University, where he excelled in both baseball and football. Torborg was an All-American catcher at Rutgers and set several school records.

Playing Career

Torborg was signed by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1963. He made his MLB debut on May 10, 1964. Torborg was known for his defensive skills and his ability to handle pitchers. He caught Sandy Koufax's perfect game on September 9, 1965, and Nolan Ryan's first no-hitter on May 15, 1973. Torborg also caught Bill Singer's no-hitter on July 20, 1970.

Los Angeles Dodgers

Torborg played for the Dodgers from 1964 to 1970. During his time with the team, he was part of the 1965 World Series championship team.

California Angels

In 1971, Torborg was traded to the California Angels, where he played until his retirement in 1973.

Coaching and Managerial Career

After retiring as a player, Torborg transitioned into coaching and managing. He began his coaching career with the Cleveland Indians as a bullpen coach in 1975.

Managerial Positions

Torborg managed several MLB teams, including the Cleveland Indians, Chicago White Sox, New York Mets, Montreal Expos, and the Florida Marlins. He was named the American League Manager of the Year in 1990 while managing the White Sox.

Cleveland Indians

Torborg managed the Indians from 1977 to 1979. His tenure with the team was marked by struggles, and he was eventually replaced.

Chicago White Sox

Torborg managed the White Sox from 1989 to 1991. Under his leadership, the team saw significant improvement, and he was awarded the Manager of the Year title in 1990.

New York Mets

Torborg managed the Mets from 1992 to 1993. His time with the Mets was challenging, and he was dismissed during the 1993 season.

Montreal Expos

Torborg managed the Expos in 2001. His tenure was short-lived, and he was replaced after one season.

Florida Marlins

Torborg managed the Marlins from 2002 to 2003. He was replaced early in the 2003 season.

Broadcasting Career

After his managerial career, Torborg worked as a broadcaster for several MLB teams, including the New York Yankees and the Atlanta Braves.

Personal Life

Torborg is married and has three children. He is known for his contributions to baseball both on and off the field.

Legacy

Torborg is remembered for his defensive prowess as a catcher and his ability to manage and develop young talent as a manager. His contributions to baseball have left a lasting impact on the sport.

See Also

• List of Major League Baseball managers
• List of Major League Baseball catchers
• Los Angeles Dodgers
• California Angels
• Chicago White Sox
• New York Mets
• Montreal Expos
• Florida Marlins

External Links

• Career statistics and player information from MLB, or ESPN, or Baseball Reference, or Fangraphs