MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Twins announced Wednesday that two of their beloved former players are on the mend after experiencing strokes just days apart.
Tony Oliva, who played as a right fielder and designated hitter, has recently endured “a series of mini strokes” over the last month. The Twins anticipate a full recovery for him. Meanwhile, Kent Hrbek, a former first baseman, suffered a minor stroke in the aftermath of a knee surgery that occurred in early April. He is currently recuperating at home.
Oliva, now 86, played his entire Major League Baseball career with the Twins, extending 15 years. He was honored as the American League Rookie of the Year in 1964 and captured the batting title three times during his illustrious career. His contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2022 by the Golden Days Era Committee.
Hrbek, aged 64, hails from Bloomington and, similarly to Oliva, spent his entire 14-year professional career playing for the Twins. His efforts were pivotal in the team clinching World Series championships in 1987 and 1991.
Both retired players have remained deeply connected to the team over the years. Since the opening of Target Field in 2010, Oliva and Hrbek have frequently been seen at the ballpark. In tribute to their impact on the team, the Twins retired Oliva’s No. 6 and Hrbek’s No. 14 jerseys. Additionally, bronze statues of these baseball legends stand prominently outside the stadium.
The Twins organization looks forward to welcoming Oliva and Hrbek back to the ballpark when they are ready to return.