Who Is Don Zimmer? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Don Zimmer was born on January 17, 1931, and he had an incredible career as both a player and manager in Major League Baseball (MLB). He passed away on June 4, 2014, leaving behind a significant legacy in the world of baseball. Zimmer played for several teams, including the Brooklyn Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs, before transitioning into a managerial role where he led teams such as the New York Yankees and the Tampa Bay Rays.
Occupation | Baseball Manager |
---|---|
Date of Birth | January 17, 1931 |
Age | 83 Years |
Birth Place | Cincinnati, Ohio, U.S. |
Horoscope | Capricorn |
Country | U.S |
Date of death | 4 June, 2014 |
Died Place | Dunedin, Florida, U.S. |
Popularity
Don Zimmer's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Don Zimmer was known for his robust physique and competitive spirit. While exact measurements vary, he stood approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighed around 180 pounds during his playing days. His body stats reflected a typical athlete of his era, showcasing power and endurance that contributed to his long career in professional baseball.
While with St. Paul in 1953, Zimmer nearly died after being hit in the temple with a pitch. He was not fully conscious for 13 days, during which holes were drilled in his skull to relieve the pressure of swelling. His vision was blurred, he could neither walk nor talk and his weight plunged from 170 to 124.
He was told his career was finished at age 22; nonetheless, the following year Zimmer reached the Major Leagues.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
During his life, Don Zimmer was married to his wife, Sandy Zimmer. They were together for over 60 years, celebrating a partnership that was as impactful off the field as it was on. The couple had three children, who have continued to honor their father's legacy. In 2025, although he is no longer with us, his close-knit family and the baseball community continue to remember him fondly.
Zimmer grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio. His father owned a wholesale fruit and vegetable company. At home plate before a night game in Elmira on August 16, 1951, Zimmer married Soot (Carol Jean Bauerle), whom he had started dating in 10th grade. Until his death in June 2014, they were still married and lived in Seminole, Florida. They had lived in the Tampa Bay Area since the late 1950s.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing in 2014, Don Zimmer's net worth was estimated to be around $5 million. His earnings came from his long career in baseball, both as a player and a manager, as well as his various roles as a coach and advisor after retirement. While exact statistics for 2025 are not applicable, it's clear that his financial legacy has had a lasting impact through memorabilia and continued tributes from fans and the baseball community.
Career, Business, and Investments
Don Zimmer's career spanned several decades, marked by significant achievements and profound contributions to baseball. After an active playing career that began in the 1950s, he transitioned to coaching and managed several successful MLB teams. Post-retirement, Zimmer was heavily involved in baseball broadcasts and continued to work as an advisor, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for the game. Over the years, he accumulated wealth and respect, cementing his status as a beloved figure in sports.
Following his retirement as a player, Zimmer began his coaching career.
He worked in Minor League Baseball, before coaching the Montreal Expos (1971), San Diego Padres (1972), Boston Red Sox (1974–76, 1992), New York Yankees (1983, 1986, 1996–2003), Cubs (1984–1986), San Francisco Giants (1987), Colorado Rockies (1993–1995), and Tampa Bay Devil Rays / Rays (2004–2014).
He served as manager for the Padres (1972–73), Red Sox (1976–1980), Texas Rangers (1981–82), and Cubs (1988–1991).
Social Network
Although Don Zimmer is not active on social media platforms in 2025, his influence persists through various fan pages and tributes on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Fans and former players alike continue to share stories and memories that celebrate his contributions to baseball, ensuring that his legacy lives on in the digital world.
In 1971, he joined the Montreal Expos as third-base coach, working under former Dodger Gene Mauch. He spent a year with Mauch, then returned to the Padres to take up a similar post for 1972. But after only 11 games, he was asked to replace Preston Gómez as San Diego's skipper on April 27. The promotion gave Zimmer, now 41, his first managerial job in the major leagues.
Education
Don Zimmer attended high school in Cincinnati, Ohio, and later pursued a professional baseball career, bypassing a formal college sports education. His on-the-job training and mentorship under seasoned players and managers provided him with invaluable experience that shaped his future roles in baseball management and coaching.