BALTIMORE -- Joe Altobelli, the manager who led the Baltimore Orioles to their most recent World Series title in 1983, died Wednesday. He was 88.
The Orioles confirmed Altobelli's death Wednesday, saying in a statement that the manager was a "tremendous leader.''
Altobelli was hired by the Orioles before the 1983 season -- replacing future Hall of Famer Earl Weaver -- and immediately found success. The team's roster included future Hall of Famers such as first baseman Eddie Murray, shortstop Cal Ripken Jr. and pitcher Jim Palmer.
The balanced club won the American League East by six games over the Detroit Tigers and then dominated in the playoffs, beating the Chicago White Sox 3 games to 1 before rolling to the World Series title over the Philadelphia Phillies in five games.