In seven cities where he played Major League Baseball over 23 seasons, Rusty Staub always made an impact on his team, the fans, and the media. Detroit fans will remember Staub as the player that the Tigers received in a trade for Mickey Lolich. Staub passed away at the age of 73 on Thursday, the day when Lolich was scheduled to throw out the first pitch for opening day.
Born Daniel Joseph Staub in New Orleans, Rusty began his career with the expansion Houston Colt 45’s, who would become the Houston Astros, after signing for a bonus of $100,000 at the age of 18.