Jim Price, a former Detroit Tigers catcher, a key member of their 1968 championship team, and a longstanding broadcast analyst passed away at age 81.
The Tigers officially announced his demise on Tuesday. He is survived by his wife, Lisa, son Jack, and other family members.
Price’s association with the Tigers spanned from 1967 to 1971, during which he served as the backup to the accomplished catcher Bill Freehan, who was both an All-Star and a recipient of the Gold Glove Award.
Throughout his 261-game MLB career, Price held a batting average of .214, contributed 18 home runs and 71 RBIs, and notably played a role in the Tigers’ victory in the 1968 World Series.
Transitioning to his broadcasting career, Price joined the ranks of radio analysts for the Tigers in 1998, later expanding his involvement to encompass television coverage.
Hailing from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Price’s athletic background was diverse, having participated in three sports at Hershey High School.
He signed with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1960 instead of pursuing the football scholarships he had been offered.
Jim Price Wife, Lisa, And Family
He was married to his wife, Lisa, and son, Jack, who resided in Southeast Michigan.
She is a passionate advocator for people and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
In 2018, Lisa joined the 94.7 WCSX, where she discussed her life story.
She mentioned that Jim was the love of her life, and right after she was married, she wanted to have kids.
After many attempts, they had their son, Jack, but he wasn’t developing as he should. So, with a diagnosis at four years old, it was found out that he had Autism.
Later, Price and his wife established a non-profit foundation, “Jack’s Place for Autism,” which honored their son Jackson, who had been diagnosed with this condition.
Centered in Southfield, this foundation extends vital services to individuals and families with neurological disorders.
With an impressive outreach of more than 11,500 people and families, the organization functions as a comprehensive resource hub, offering guidance and support to those navigating life with ASD.
Their initiatives encompass diverse areas, including arts and sports programs, summer camps, and more.
“My wife runs it. She is brilliant. I can do some things … on the air all the time we talk about Jack’s Place,” according to the late Price.
A Man Loved By Many
After the news of his death was revealed, social media was flooded with condolences to the legendary commentator.
On and off the field, Jim was a great man loved and respected by many.
Tigers chairman and CEO Christopher Ilitch expressed profound sorrow on Tuesday, releasing a statement.
Ilitch emphasized the significant aspect that Price’s lifelong association with the Tigers symbolized—his dedication and unwavering loyalty to the team and the city of Detroit.
Ilitch further recounted Price’s unique connection with his parents, highlighting their strong relationship spanning many years. He conveyed that his mother and father held Jim Price in high regard.
Similarly, his colleagues, fans, and followers have respected the legend.
According to his friend and long-time collaborator, Gary Kotlarz, Jim was undergoing chemotherapy for his cancer treatment, which often left him feeling unwell.
However, he would still join charities and other fundraising endeavors to benefit his foundation.
Tragically, news of Price’s passing emerged just ahead of an annual golf outing organized in Sterling Heights.
This event, held at Maple Lane Golf Course, has been an instrumental platform for generating over $50,000 in support of autism awareness and education.
Kotlarz expressed his condolences, highlighting Price’s dedication to his charity work and his unwavering commitment to making a difference despite his health challenges.
