Preston Gomez was a distinctive player, manager, coach, scout, executive and assistant general manager in Major League Baseball, performing each role well in his own time. Gomez was struck by an articulated vehicle last year in spring training in Arizona in March. He died from some of the complications of his injuries in Fullerton, California.
Gomez was a pioneer and ambassador. “The Angels family has lost one of its most valued members,” said Tony Reagins, Angels general manager. “His influence and impact of him on so many people in the industry is impossible to measure. Preston’s legacy will always be a part of this organization.”
Gomez began his playing career in 1944. The 21-year-old Havana, Cuba native became a shortstop and played with the Washington Senators. He made history in 1969 by accepting the first coaching job of the San Diego Padres. The Padres expressed deep sadness over Gomez’s passing, saying his love for the game left a lasting impression.
During his playing career, Gómez hit .286 in eight games, but then spent the rest of his playing career in the Minors. 1951 was his best season with 9 home runs, 58 RBIs and a .268 batting average for a Pennsylvania team known as the Three Rivers.
His minor league managerial career included the Los Angeles Dodgers, Cincinnati and New York Yankees. Gomez also coached St. Louis and Houston. In 1965, Gomez accepted the third base coaching job with the Dodgers and served for four seasons, during which time he won a World Series title and two National League pennants. “The man spent his entire life in baseball,” former Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda said.
When Gomez moved to the majors, he managed three major league teams and became a major credit to his game. Gomez joined the Los Angeles Angels in 1981 as the third base coach and worked in that capacity for four seasons, from 1981 to 1984, after which he began as a special assistant to the general manager until his death.
“His professional success was matched by his personal warmth. He had a kind and generous spirit and will be greatly missed,” said Sandy Alderson, CEO of the Sand Diego Padres.
Los Angeles manager Mike Scioscia invited Gomez to spring training every year and believes that anyone who has had the opportunity to spend time with Gomez couldn’t help but notice his incredible passion for baseball.
Preston Gomez is survived by his wife Elizabeth, sisters Rachel Valz and Sara Raspall, brother Jose Gomez, son Pedro, daughter Elia, stepdaughter Claudia Astorga, adopted son Carlos Becerra, and grandchildren Sergio Jr. and Eliana.
Spring Training will continue as usual in February, but with the loss of Gomez so close to the start of another Spring Training, his warmth, experience and kindness are sure to be missed. Men like Preston Gomez don’t show up every day and will be fondly remembered for his many contributions to baseball.
