The Inspiring Journey of Rich Dauer: From Baseball Champion to Survivor
Introduction
Rich Dauer is a famous name in the world of baseball. He played in the major leagues for over a decade and helped the Baltimore Orioles win the World Series in 1983. What is less known is that he had to take on an immense challenge outside the sport in order to save his own life. In this blog post, we’ll explore the inspiring journey of Rich Dauer, from baseball champion to survivor.
Draft Pick and Baseball Career
Rich Dauer was born on August 27, 1952, in California. He was a highly talented player from a young age and was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 1974. He made his major league debut in 1976 and went on to play second base for the team until 1985. In 1983, the Orioles won the World Series, with Dauer playing a key role both on defense and offense.
Coaching Career
After retiring from playing, Dauer took up coaching and worked as a minor league manager for several years. He briefly coached for the Milwaukee Brewers and the Colorado Rockies before joining the Houston Astros as a first base coach in 2015.
Surviving a Near-Fatal Aneurysm
In November 2017, Dauer underwent surgery to remove a blood clot in his brain. During the surgery, he suffered a severe brain bleed, which led to a coma. He was given very little chance of survival, but he managed to pull through. Dauer later credited his survival to the quick actions of the medical staff who treated him.
Rehabilitation and Recovery
Dauer spent several months in rehabilitation after his coma. He had to relearn how to walk and talk and had to undergo intensive therapy to regain his strength and coordination. Despite the immense challenge, he was determined to recover and return to his coaching duties with the Houston Astros.
Return to Coaching Duties
Dauer returned to the Houston Astros as a coach in February 2018, just a few months after his near-fatal aneurysm. He worked closely with the team during their championship season and was even present when they won the World Series. Dauer’s resilience and determination were a huge source of inspiration to the team and the fans.
Legacy and Honors
Rich Dauer’s remarkable journey inspired people all over the world. He received numerous honors for his contributions to baseball, including induction into the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame and the California Community College Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. In 2019, the Houston Astros retired Dauer’s coaching number (16) during a ceremony at the Minute Maid Park.
Final Thoughts
Rich Dauer’s journey is a true testament to the power of resilience and determination. Despite facing a near-fatal challenge, he refused to give up and worked tirelessly to recover and return to the sport he loved. His remarkable journey continues to inspire people today.
FAQs
Q. When did Rich Dauer start playing professional baseball?
A. Rich Dauer was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 1974 and made his major league debut in 1976.
Q. How long did Rich Dauer play for the Baltimore Orioles?
A. Rich Dauer played second base for the Baltimore Orioles from 1976 to 1985.
Q. What did Rich Dauer do after retiring from playing?
A. Rich Dauer took up coaching and worked as a minor league manager for several years before joining the Houston Astros as a first base coach in 2015.
Q. What happened to Rich Dauer in 2017?
A. Rich Dauer underwent surgery to remove a blood clot in his brain. During the surgery, he suffered a severe brain bleed, which led to a coma.
Q. How did Rich Dauer inspire people?
A. Rich Dauer’s resilience and determination in the face of adversity inspired people all over the world. His remarkable journey continues to inspire people today.