Kevin Hickey was a left-handed pitcher who played for three different Major League Baseball teams during his career. He was born on February 25, 1956, in Chicago, Illinois, and grew up in the city's South Side. Hickey was a standout athlete in high school, excelling in both baseball and basketball. After graduating, he was signed by the Chicago White Sox as an undrafted free agent in 1978.
Hickey spent several years in the minor leagues before making his Major League debut with the White Sox in 1981. He quickly established himself as a reliable reliever, appearing in 48 games and posting a 2.42 ERA in his rookie season. Hickey continued to pitch well for the White Sox over the next few years, earning a reputation as a hard-throwing lefty with a devastating slider.
In 1983, Hickey was traded to the Baltimore Orioles, where he spent the next three seasons. He continued to pitch well for the Orioles, appearing in 50 or more games each year and posting a sub-3.00 ERA in two of those seasons. Hickey's best year with the Orioles came in 1985, when he went 8-9 with a 2.73 ERA in 63 appearances.
After the 1986 season, Hickey was released by the Orioles and signed with the Oakland Athletics. He struggled in his lone season with the A's, posting a 5.05 ERA in 44 appearances. Hickey was released by the Athletics after the season and did not pitch in the Major Leagues again.
Despite his relatively short career, Hickey was beloved by fans and teammates alike. He was known for his outgoing personality and his willingness to help younger players. After his playing career ended, Hickey remained involved in baseball, working as a coach and scout for several teams.
Tragically, Hickey passed away on May 16, 2012, at the age of 56. He had suffered a heart attack while serving as a coach for the White Sox's minor league affiliate in Birmingham, Alabama. Hickey's death was mourned by many in the baseball community, who remembered him as a talented pitcher and a kind-hearted person.
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