– Frank Quilici, of Mn Twins fame, passes, 79

(Star Tribune) Frank Quilici, the Twins ex-player, coach, manager and broadcaster died, Monday, three days after turning 79.

The Star Tribune reports, Quilici, died Monday because of kidney disease at his home in Burnsville, and that, had been in hospice care.

The Twins released a statement during Monday night’s 1-0 loss to the Mariners that read, in part, “Frank not only exemplified professionalism … he also served as a community leader in the Twin Cities working to make sure youth had recreational opportunities and contributed to many other charitable causes. The club, like many of his friends throughout the game, is thinking of the Quilici family during this difficult time.”

Quilici had a 280-287 record as Twins manager from 1972 to ’75. He played on the Twins’ World Series team in 1965, and was also with them from 1967 to ’70 as an infielder. After retiring as a player, he became a coach on Bill Rigney’s staff in 1971, and was promoted to manager at age 33 when Rigney was fired in July 1972. Quilici was fired after the 1975 season and later worked as a commentator on the team’s radio broadcasts.

In 405 major league games, all with the Twins, Quilici hit .214 with five home runs.

“Few individuals have impacted the Twins organization more — or in as many ways — as the great Frank Quilici,” Twins President Dave St. Peter wrote on Twitter. “As a player, coach, manager and broadcaster, Frank’s love for the Twins and this community was always on display. RIP Frank.”

Said manager Paul Molitor: “He’s been around Twins alumni events forever. I know he’s had his battles. He did a lot for this organization, he was a good ambassador.”