Former MLB All-Star Joe Coleman Dies at 78

Joe Coleman, a former Major League Baseball pitcher known for being the first player to reach the majors after the inaugural 1965 amateur draft, passed away in his sleep at age 78 in Jamestown, Tennessee. Coleman had a 15-year MLB career, playing for teams including the Washington Senators, Detroit Tigers, Chicago Cubs, Oakland Athletics, Toronto Blue Jays, San Francisco Giants, and Pittsburgh Pirates. He was an All-Star in 1972 with the Tigers, where he had some of his best seasons, including a 23-win year and a notable ALCS strikeout record. Coleman finished his career with a 142-135 win-loss record, a 3.70 ERA, and 1,728 strikeouts, and was fondly remembered for his impact both on and off the field. The Detroit Tigers will honor him with a moment of silence during a game on July 11. Tributes have highlighted his legacy as a skilled pitcher and a man with a good heart who influenced many players throughout professional baseball.