Leach played primarily as an outfielder and designated hitter for the Tigers, but also saw time at first base and third base. He was known for his speed on the basepaths and his ability to hit for power. In his rookie season, he hit .280 with 10 home runs and 38 RBIs in just 78 games.
Over the course of his career, Leach played for several teams including the Tigers, Toronto Blue Jays, San Francisco Giants, and Texas Rangers. He was never able to replicate the success of his rookie season, but he remained a solid contributor off the bench and as a part-time player.
In addition to his baseball career, Leach also had a brief stint in the NFL as a quarterback for the Denver Broncos. He played in just one game during the 1983 season, completing 2 of 4 passes for 25 yards.
After retiring from professional sports, Leach went on to become a successful high school football coach in Michigan. He led his teams to multiple state championships and was named the Michigan High School Football Coach of the Year in 2009.
Overall, Rick Leach had a solid but unspectacular career in both baseball and football. He was a versatile athlete who was able to contribute in multiple ways, but he never quite reached the level of stardom that many had predicted for him. Despite this, he remained a respected and beloved figure in the world of sports, both for his on-field accomplishments and his coaching success later in life.
⚾