Baltimore, MD – The Baltimore Orioles and the baseball community are mourning the loss of former second baseman Rich Dauer, who passed away at the age of 72. Dauer, a key figure in the Orioles’ 1983 World Series championship team, died on February 3, 2025. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Dauer spent his entire 10-year Major League Baseball (MLB) career with the Orioles from 1976 to 1985. Renowned for his defensive prowess and steady bat, he played a crucial role in Baltimore’s success during the late 1970s and early 1980s. In the 1983 World Series, Dauer’s contributions helped propel the Orioles to victory over the Philadelphia Phillies, cementing his place in the franchise’s storied history.
Over his career, Dauer recorded a .257 batting average with 43 home runs and 372 RBIs in 1,140 games. His durability and consistency made him a fan favorite, and he was inducted into the Orioles Hall of Fame in 2012 in recognition of his achievements.
Following his retirement as a player, Dauer transitioned into coaching, where he continued to make an impact on the game. He served as a coach for multiple MLB teams, including the Kansas City Royals, Milwaukee Brewers, and Houston Astros, where he won another World Series ring as a first base coach in 2017.
Tributes have poured in from former teammates, colleagues, and fans who remember Dauer as both a talented athlete and a beloved figure in the Orioles organization. The team released a statement expressing their condolences to Dauer’s family, highlighting his enduring legacy and contributions to Baltimore baseball.
The Orioles are expected to honor Dauer’s memory in the upcoming season, with plans for a tribute at Camden Yards. More details on the memorial arrangements are expected in the coming days.
Dauer is survived by his wife and children, who have requested privacy during this difficult time.
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