Kirk Gibson

Kirk Gibson by Gage Skidmore

American baseball player and coach

Baseball player

Kirk Harold Gibson (born May 28, 1957) is an American former professional baseball outfielder and manager. He is best known for his time with the Detroit Tigers and the Los Angeles Dodgers, as well as for his dramatic home run in the 1988 World Series.

Early life and education

Gibson was born in Pontiac, Michigan, and attended Waterford Kettering High School in Waterford, Michigan. He went on to play college football at Michigan State University, where he was an All-American wide receiver. Despite his success in football, Gibson chose to pursue a career in baseball.

Professional career

Detroit Tigers

Gibson made his Major League Baseball debut with the Detroit Tigers on September 8, 1979. He quickly became known for his power hitting and speed on the bases. In 1984, Gibson played a key role in leading the Tigers to a World Series championship, hitting two home runs in the decisive Game 5.

Los Angeles Dodgers

In 1988, Gibson signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers. That year, he won the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. His most memorable moment came during Game 1 of the 1988 World Series against the Oakland Athletics. Despite being injured, Gibson hit a pinch-hit, walk-off home run off Dennis Eckersley, which is considered one of the greatest moments in baseball history.

Later career

Gibson went on to play for the Kansas City Royals and the Pittsburgh Pirates before returning to the Detroit Tigers to finish his playing career. He retired in 1995 with a career batting average of .268, 255 home runs, and 870 runs batted in.

Coaching and managerial career

After retiring as a player, Gibson transitioned into coaching. He served as a coach for the Detroit Tigers and later became the manager of the Arizona Diamondbacks from 2010 to 2014. Under his leadership, the Diamondbacks won the National League West division title in 2011.

Personal life

Gibson has been involved in various charitable activities and has worked as a broadcaster for Fox Sports Detroit. He was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2015 and has since become an advocate for research and awareness of the disease.

Legacy

Kirk Gibson is remembered as one of the most clutch performers in baseball history. His dramatic home run in the 1988 World Series remains a defining moment in the sport. He was inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame and the Detroit Tigers Hall of Fame.

See also

• List of Major League Baseball career home run leaders
• List of Major League Baseball players with a home run in their final at-bat