Howard, who was 6-7 and over 250 pounds, was nicknamed “The Capital Punisher” and “The Washington Monument. He had a 16-year MLB career spending time with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Washington Senators/Texas Rangers and Detroit Tigers.
Howard was an All-Star four times during his stint with the Senators from 1965-71. He also had two top-5 finishes in MVP voting.
“Growing up a baseball fan in Washington D.C., Frank Howard was my hero,” Nationals managing principal owner Mark D. Lerner said in a statement, via MLB.com. “The towering home runs he hit into the stands at RFK Stadium gave him the nickname ‘Capital Punisher,’ but I’ll always remember him as a kind and gentle man. The entire Lerner family would like to offer our thoughts and condolences to Frank’s family during this difficult time. The world of baseball has truly lost a giant.”
After his playing career, Howard was a coach for the Milwaukee Brewers from 1977-80 and managed the Padres in 1981. He started coaching with the Mets in 1982 and became manager during the 1983 season for the final 116 games. He also spent time as a coach with the Yankees and Devil Rays.
Former Mets manager and Yankees coach, who passed away at the age of 87, leaves behind a remarkable legacy in baseball. His career spanned several decades, during which he made significant contributions to both franchises.
Starting as a player, he quickly transitioned into coaching, where his strategic mind and passion for the game shone through. He took the helm of the Mets during a challenging period, guiding the team with resilience and fostering young talent. His leadership style was characterized by a blend of discipline and encouragement, earning the respect of his players and colleagues.
Later, as a coach for the Yankees, he was instrumental in shaping their success during a pivotal era. His deep understanding of the game and ability to connect with players made him a valuable asset to the coaching staff.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was known for his kindness and mentorship, impacting countless lives both on and off the field. His contributions to baseball will be remembered, and he leaves behind a legacy that resonates with fans and players alike.
