In Memoriam : MLB All-Star Dick Allen dies at 78

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Dick Allen, an impressive hitter who was a seven-time MLB All-Star, the 1964 NL Rookie of the Year and the 1972 AL MVP, has died. He was 78.

Death details for Dick Allen

The Philadelphia Phillies, the team Allen started his career with, announced his death.

Allen’s No. 15 was retired by the Phillies in September, an honor that was considered long overdue by many for one of the franchise’s greatest players who fought against racism during a tumultuous period with the team in the 1960s.

“The Phillies are heartbroken over the passing today of our dear friend and co-worker, Dick Allen,” the team said.

“Dick will be remembered as not just one of the greatest and most popular players in our franchise’s history, but also as a courageous warrior who had to overcome far too many obstacles to reach the level he did. Dick’s iconic status will resonate for generations of baseball fans to come as one of the all-time greats to play America’s pastime,” the Phillies said.

Baseball career

Allen batted .292 with 351 homers, 1,119 RBI and .912 OPS in 15 seasons. He played first base, third base and left field.

After seven seasons in Philadelphia, where he rose to prominence, Allen played a season with the Cardinals and Dodgers.

In 1972, he joined the White Sox and was the AL MVP. He finished his 15-year career with Oakland in 1977.

Allen had the fifth-most home runs (319) over an 11-year span (1964-74) behind four Hall of Famers: Hank Aaron (391), Harmon Killebrew (336), Willie Stargell (335) and Willie McCovey (327). His .940 OPS during that time was second to Aaron’s .941.