Jorge Fitch

Jorge Fitch Díaz (30 March 1934 – 15 April 2021) was a Mexican professional baseball player and manager. As a shortstop, he played for the Tigres del México, Pericos de Puebla, Broncos/Bravos de Reynosa, and Alijadores de Tampico of the Mexican League. Fitch accumulated 1,676 hits in 1,670 games for a .272 lifetime batting average. During the winter, he played 10 seasons with the Naranjeros de Hermosillo, Mayos de Navojoa and Yaquis de Obregón of the Mexican Pacific League.

Early life Fitch was born on 30 March 1934 in Navolato, Sinaloa, but was raised in Tijuana, Baja California. As a teenager, he showed considerable aptitude for baseball, basketball, and football, standing out as goalkeeper. He ultimately decided to focus on baseball. His admiration for New York Yankees shortstop Phil Rizzuto influenced his decision to play in that same position.

Playing career Mexican Central League Fitch made his professional debut in 1956 with the Mineros de Fresnillo of the Mexican Central League. He played the 1970–71 season with the Mayos de Navojoa and retired following the season.

Managerial career He started his managerial career in 1972 with the Broncos de Reynosa and would later manage the Tecolotes de Nuevo Laredo, Pericos de Puebla and Alacranes de Durango. He posted an 829–421 managing record in eight seasons, appearing in five playoff series, while winning two championships with Tecolotes de Nuevo Laredo in 1977 and with Angeles Negros de Puebla in 1979.

Managerial achievements

Legacy and death Fitch was enshrined into the Mexican Professional Baseball Hall of Fame as part of the class of 2001 alongside pitcher Charrascas Ramírez, catcher Rodolfo Sandoval, and infielder Jack Pierce.