Dick Groat, a two-sport legend who excelled in both baseball and basketball, has passed away at the age of 92. Groat’s remarkable career spanned more than a decade in both sports, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of his time.
Born on November 4, 1930, in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, Groat grew up playing baseball and basketball. He was an outstanding athlete in both sports, and by the time he was a senior in high school, he had already received scholarship offers from several colleges.
Groat ultimately decided to attend Duke University, where he played both baseball and basketball. He was a standout on the basketball court, leading the Blue Devils to an NCAA championship in 1952. On the baseball diamond, Groat was equally impressive, earning All-American honors in 1952 and 1953.
After graduating from Duke, Groat was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1952. He made his major league debut with the team in 1952, and quickly established himself as one of the league’s top shortstops. Groat was a six-time All-Star and won two National League batting titles during his time with the Pirates.
In 1960, Groat was a key part of the Pirates team that won the World Series. He hit .325 during the regular season and was named the National League MVP. Groat’s heroics in the World Series helped propel the Pirates to their first championship in 35 years.
After spending several more seasons with the Pirates, Groat was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals in 1963. He played two seasons with the Cardinals before being traded to the Philadelphia Phillies in 1966. Groat played one season with the Phillies before retiring at the age of 35.
Following his retirement from baseball, Groat focused on his broadcasting career. He worked as a color commentator for CBS Sports, covering college basketball and the NCAA tournament.
Throughout his career, Groat remained humble and never lost sight of his roots. He was known for his kind and generous nature, and he remained an active member of his community long after his playing days were over.
News of Groat’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and remembrance from the sports world. Many have taken to social media to share their memories of Groat and to pay tribute to his remarkable career.
Former Pirates teammate Bill Mazeroski remembered Groat as a “great player and a great friend.” Mazeroski added, “He was one of the best shortstops I ever played with. He will be missed.”
Baseball Hall of Famer Jim Palmer tweeted, “Dick Groat was one of the all-time greats in both baseball and basketball. He was a true gentleman and a class act. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”
Groat’s legacy as one of the greatest athletes of his time is secure. His remarkable career in both baseball and basketball will continue to inspire generations of athletes for years to come.
