Ozzie Virgil Sr., Pioneering Dominican MLB Player, Dies at 92

Virgil broke barriers as the first Dominican-born player in Major League Baseball and the first nonwhite player for the Detroit Tigers.

Ozzie Virgil Sr. debuted in MLB with the New York Giants in 1956, becoming the first Dominican-born player in the league.
In 1958, Virgil became the first nonwhite player for the Detroit Tigers, integrating their roster.
Virgil played nine seasons in MLB, appearing in 324 games and playing multiple positions, including catcher and third base.
After retiring as a player, Virgil spent 19 years as a coach for several MLB teams, including the Giants, Expos, Padres, and Mariners.
Virgil's legacy paved the way for future Latin American players, contributing significantly to the diversification of Major League Baseball.