“RIP”: 4X All-Star and Yankees Coach Frank Howard, Known as the ‘Capital Punisher’ Dies at 87, Leaves Thousands in Mourning

There is one word to describe the common emotion in the MLB world today, ‘Saddened’. While death is inevitable, it is far easier said than done to come to terms with it. In the thick of the fiercely ongoing World Series, a moment has arrived that halts all commotion. With that, one can’t help but reflect on the eventual reality of life. It’s an unfathomable pain one feels to lose a man with such a positive demeanor.  

Frank Howard, the majestic ‘Capital Punisher’ who earned his moniker due to his intimidatingly large physique and colossal homers, has passed away, leaving an inspiring legacy behind. The man who has worn multiple hats will stay in fond memories forever. Teary-eyed, the world nods as “He was the ultimate teammate, always”. 

A Trademark of Kindness and Achievements, Frank Howard

The Washington Nationals announced on Monday the passing of a humble giant of a man. He solely propelled Washington baseball in the 1960s-70s. Sadly, he breathed his last at the age of 87 due to “complications from a stroke” as his daughter reported. That said, the 6 foot 7 inches Hercules was never short of laurels during his heyday. His jumbo home run of 500-foot at RFK Stadium in 1970 still finds a place in the chronicles of history.

Seven years after the Los Angeles Dodgers traded him, Howard established himself in baseball with Washington Senators (now Nationals). He started his Major League Baseball career in 1958. Apart from being an All-Star four times, he finished twice in the top-5 MVP voting. Few know that he even played basketball at Ohio State University and the NBA’s Philadelphia Warriors drafted him in 1958. However, he chose his love, baseball. Though the gentle giant began his career with the Dodgers and moved on to Detroit Tigers and Texas Rangers, he always identified as a true Washingtonian. 

His connection with the Senators was so strong that the usually reserved man expressed joy unconventionally in his last game before retiring. In 1971, as he hit his final homer with the Senators, he hurled his cap into the stands and blew kisses at the audience as a gesture of respect and gratitude.

During his tenure, he made some great friends owing to his temperament. Dick Bosman, teammate and friend for decades, said “Next to my dad, he’s the greatest guy I know“. He was a mentor and a leader too, who always showed up for his teammates. Not only did he correct them personally, but also taught them how to regulate the highs and lows of the sport. Losing such a gem had tributes and condolences flowing.

Fans React on the Chronicles of the Gentle Giant 

This 40-year plus-on-field figure was a sports entity who would do anything to delight his fans. Be it autographs or photographs, Frank was participative. His benevolent air dominated his otherwise daunting stature. Moreover, his personal life contributed to his aura.

Fans swelled the internet with “RIP🙏🏼”, such was the power of the man who passed. 

One fan was incredibly stunned by the loss of the mighty man. 

Another fan called him a “great great guy”

A flurry of condolences poured in. 

There were a couple of other fans who called him a legend. 

Read More : MLB Fans Mourn the Death of Former Yankees and Mets Star as He Passes Away at 78

Donna, his wife, and his kids, despite his prominence in the baseball world, played a high importance in his life. As he breathed his last he has left an indelible mark in the world of sport. 

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