KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City baseball community is grieving the loss of former Royals infielder U.L. Washington, who died over the weekend at age 70.
The Royals mourned Washington — who helped the team secure a 1980 American League Championship victory — in a post on social media.
We mourn the loss of Royals Baseball Academy graduate and 1980 American League Champion U. L. Washington and send our condolences to his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/EAw2UFcirP
— Kansas City Royals (@Royals) March 4, 2024
Washington often played shortstop for the Royals and was known for playing with his signature toothpick in his mouth.
Washington's former teammate, Royals Hall of Fame member George Brett, said that Washington died of cancer and that he is thankful for the time they had together.
So sorry to hear my friend my team mate UL washington has died of cancer he was a great player I will always be thankful of our time together with the royals
— George Brett (@GeorgeHBrett) March 4, 2024
Bob Kendrick, president of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, described Washington's passing as "a royal loss."
A ROYAL LOSS: Tremendously saddened by the news of the passing of our friend and @Royals great, UL Washington, pictured with me at the 2016 Buck O’Neil Golf Classic. UL and @JCEFrankWhite formed the American League’s 1st Black double play combo. He’ll be missed! @MLB @NLBMuseumKC pic.twitter.com/NYvi7Faxmt
— Bob Kendrick (@nlbmprez) March 4, 2024
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