Detroit Tigers first base coach and former player Kimera Bartee died Monday after he collapsed while visiting family in Nebraska.
Bartee, 49, had no known prior health concerns and his cause of death remains a mystery. He leaves behind his father, Jerry, fiancée, Terri Slide, 43, and children Andrew, Amari, and Taeja.
“All of us in the Tigers baseball family were shocked and saddened,” Tigers general manager Al Avila said in a statement. “Throughout his time in our organization as both a player and a coach, Kimera was known as a kind soul but intense competitor who did his best every day to elevate those around him to do great things.
“While Tigers fans got used to seeing him in the first base coach’s box, Kimera’s impact on our ball club went far deeper and will be sorely missed.
“The thoughts and prayers of everyone in the organization are with Kimera’s family and friends, and his memory and spirit will never be forgotten.”
Bartee began his baseball career at Creighton University. He spent six years playing in MLB, including four with Detroit.
“We mourn the passing of Kimera Bartee, who played for the Tigers from 1996-99 and spent last season as the Tigers first base coach,” the team wrote on social media.
Bartee spent the final two seasons of his playing career with the Cincinnati Reds and Colorado Rockies. After his playing days, he coached for the Baltimore Orioles, Pittsburgh Pirates, Philadelphia Phillies, and, of course, Tigers.
