Bobby Malkmus, a former Major League infielder and longtime minor league manager, has passed away at the age of 93. His death was confirmed by the funeral home handling his services, marking the end of a life deeply intertwined with baseball. (si.com)
Born in Newark, New Jersey, Malkmus began his professional baseball journey in 1951 when he signed with the Boston Braves directly out of South Side High School. He made his Major League debut in 1957 with the Milwaukee Braves. Over the course of his six-season MLB career, he also played for the Washington Senators (1958–59) and the Philadelphia Phillies (1960–62).(si.com)
Malkmus joined the Phillies in 1960 after being selected in the Rule 5 draft. That year, he served as a utility infielder, posting a .211 batting average with one home run and 12 RBIs over 79 games. His most productive season came in 1961, when he hit .231 with seven home runs and 31 RBIs across 121 games. Despite the Phillies’ struggles that season, finishing with a 47–107–1 record, Malkmus received a single National League MVP vote, tying him for 22nd place in the voting. (si.com)
After concluding his playing career, Malkmus dedicated himself to developing future talent as a minor league manager and scout. His commitment to the sport extended beyond his on-field performance, influencing countless players and contributing to the game’s growth at the grassroots level.(si.com)
Bobby Malkmus’s legacy is one of perseverance and dedication. From his early days in Newark to his time in the Major Leagues and subsequent role in nurturing young talent, his contributions to baseball were significant and lasting. He will be remembered fondly by teammates, players he mentored, and fans who appreciated his unwavering commitment to the game.
