SAD NEWS : Kansas City Royals just confirmed the death of one of their key man in the team

U.L. Washington, a longtime Kansas City Royals infielder who helped the franchise win its first American League pennant and is most remembered for his distinctive toothpick, died on Sunday, the team confirmed.

Washington, who had cancer, was 70 years old.
Washington played for the Royals for eight seasons, from 1977 to 1984. He helped them reach the World Series in 1980, the franchise’s inaugural trip, but they lost 4-2 to the Philadelphia Phillies. During his eight seasons with the Royals, the shortstop and second baseman had a.254 batting average, 228 RBI, and 26 home runs.

While he was vital in the Royals’ postseason run in 1980, it was the toothpick he frequently carried in his mouth that drew attention nationwide. According to the Kansas City Star, there was even consideration of prohibiting his toothpick use during winter meetings following the 1980 season.

“I’d much rather be remembered as a pretty good player, but I realize most people will remember me as the guy with the toothpick,” Washington remarked in 1988, according to the Star. “I feel I’ve had a pretty good career, especially looking back at how I got into professional baseball.”

Washington played one season with the Montreal Expos and two with the Pittsburgh Pirates before retiring following the 1987 season. He concluded his career with a.251 batting average in 907 games. “So sorry to hear my friend, my teammate, U.L. Washington, has died of cancer,” veteran Royals star and executive George Brett posted on social media. “He was an excellent player. I will always be grateful for our time together with the Royals.”