Merv Rettenmund, notable for his 13-season career in Major League Baseball and subsequent role as a respected hitting coach, passed away on Saturday at the age of 81. His journey in the MLB began with the 1968 Orioles, where he quickly became an integral part of Baltimore’s success from 1969 to 1971.
Rettenmund achieved remarkable success with the Orioles, contributing to their World Series victory in 1970. During that championship year, he delivered an impressive .322 batting average with a .938 OPS and 18 home runs. His consistent performance continued into 1971, earning him consideration for the American League MVP with a .318 average and a .422 on-base percentage.
After a trade to Cincinnati following the 1973 season, Rettenmund secured another World Series ring in 1975, playing with ‘The Big Red Machine.’ Later in his career, with the Padres and Angels, he excelled as a pinch-hitter, setting a club record with 22 pinch-hits for San Diego in 1977.
Transitioning from player to coach, Rettenmund began his coaching career with the Rangers in 1983. Over the next 25 years, he left a significant mark as a hitting coach for teams including the Rangers, A’s, Padres, Braves, and Tigers. He notably helped the A’s capture a World Series title in 1989 and an AL pennant in 1990.
Rettenmund’s time with the Padres was particularly impactful, spanning two periods, from 1991 to 1999 and 2006 to 2007. His guidance was instrumental in Hall of Famer Tony Gwynn winning four of his eight batting titles, including Gwynn’s near .400 season in 1994.
Rettenmund’s legacy in MLB as both a player and a coach is profound, marked by exceptional achievements and contributions to the teams he served. His influence on players and the game will be remembered by the baseball community.
