Former A’s stalwart Sal Bando passed away at 78 after a battle with cancer. Fans of a certain era will remember Bando playing for the three-time champion Oakland Athletics (1972-74). He was steady if not spectacular. He was their captain. His career numbers were not HOF worthy although he earned that honor for his collegiate play (ASU), with the A’s and Brewers.
He brought instant credibility to the Brewers when he was their first free agent signee in 1976. After finishing his playing career with the Brewers, he eventually settled in as their general manager.
Here’s the Sports Illustrated account. There are others out there, but this might be the easiest to access. When he was the Brewers GM, he and his family spent a Christmas break with us at the hotel. I had several opportunities to chat him up and took advantage of his kindness. I don’t think he expected anyone at our desk would have any idea who he was.
R,I.P. Mr. Bando!
I'd rather be sitting in a ballpark. 
One response to “Baseball is more than numbers”
He was the Joe Torre equivalent in the AL. I could never hate him but he was always “the enemy” to this White Sox fan. I hope that his passing was peaceful.
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