Former Astros, Dodgers star Jimmy Wynn dies at 78
Former Houston Astros and Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Jimmy Wynn died Thursday at the age of 78.
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Astros legend, Jimmy "The Toy Cannon" Wynn. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/kRNexoUk0Z
— Houston Astros (@astros) March 27, 2020
"The Toy Cannon" played 15 major-league seasons from 1963-1977 and was named to three All-Star rosters. Wynn spent the bulk of his career with Houston, debuting when the club was still dubbed the Colt .45s.
Over 1,920 career games, Wynn batted .250/.366/.436 with 291 home runs, 964 RBIs, and 225 stolen bases. He also led the majors in walks on two occasions. He was the first batter to hit three home runs in a single game at the Astrodome.
Despite his diminutive 5-foot-10, 160-pound frame, Wynn possessed significant power. He had a quip at the ready to explain how he managed to be so strong.
My 2010 interview with Jimmy Wynn ended as follows:
— David Laurila (@DavidLaurilaQA) March 27, 2020
DL: How did a man your size hit a baseball so far?
JW: I drank a lot of milk.
The Astros retired Wynn's No. 24 at Minute Maid Park in 2005, and the team opened the Jimmy Wynn Training Center in Houston for urban youth in 2011.
In addition to the Astros and Dodgers, Wynn also made stops with the Atlanta Braves, New York Yankees, and Milwaukee Brewers.