We are saddened to learn of the sudden death of Detroit Tigers first base coach Kimera Bartee, who passed away Monday at the age of 49. The cause is unknown, but the baseball world remembered Bartee on Tuesday following this tragic news:
We mourn the passing of Kimera Bartee, who played for the Tigers from 1996-99 and spent last season as the Tigers first base coach. pic.twitter.com/3Lg6G1anAQ
— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) December 21, 2021
Heartbreaking news in the baseball world. Kimera Bartee was a generous soul who smiled easily and competed passionately. My prayers are with the @Tigers, his family, and his many friends around the game. @MLBNetwork https://t.co/pBxlt5gSDP
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) December 21, 2021
So saddened by the loss of @tigers 1B coach Kimera Bartee. Such a good man. always showed up at the ballpark with a smile on his face, a handshake on the field and excited to talk baseball. He’ll be deeply missed
— Matt Shepard (@ShepMatt) December 21, 2021
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Pirates coach, Kimera Bartee. He was a great person with an infectious smile and energy.
— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) December 21, 2021
He will truly be missed. pic.twitter.com/4VzTCebL6O
Our hearts are broken to learn of the passing of MLB veteran, Kimera Bartee. Gone too soon. pic.twitter.com/X34UhBBGBL
— MLBPAA (@MLBPAA) December 21, 2021
Check out some career highlights for Bartee, the player and coach:
Appeared in 1991 College World Series With Creighton
Played Four Seasons With The Tigers From 1996-1999
243 Career Major League Games
36 Career Stolen Bases, including 20 in his 1996 Rookie Season
August 24th 1996: First Career Home Run in Kansas City
Pirates First Base Coach and Outfield Instructor (2017-2019), Phillies Roving Baserunning and Bunting Coordinator (2020)
Tigers Interim First Base Coach (2021)-Promoted to Permanent Position After Season
