George Thomas: key obituary facts
Is George Thomas dead? Yes. George Thomas died on October 23, 2026, at age 88.
Cause of death: George Thomas's cause of death has not been publicly confirmed.
What was George Thomas known for?
He was an American baseball player, born 1937.
More about George Thomas
Born: 29 November 1937.
Place of birth: Minneapolis.
Gender: male.
Nationality: United States.
Education: University of Minnesota.
Also known as: George Edward Thomas, Jr.
George Thomas, an American former professional baseball player for the Detroit Tigers, Los Angeles Angels, Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins, died October 23, 2026, aged 88.
Born George Edward Thomas Jr. in Minneapolis, he attended the University of Minnesota and played primarily as an outfielder during a 13-year major-league career.
His versatility extended across the field: he appeared in at least one game at every position except pitcher. Thomas signed with Detroit in 1957 after one varsity season at Minnesota. Under the bonus rule then in effect, he could not be sent to the minor leagues; he made one big-league appearance that season, striking out as a pinch hitter against Washington’s Ted Abernathy on September 11. After limited playing time with Detroit in 1961, Thomas joined the expansion Angels in June. He had regular opportunities there, starting games in the outfield and at third base, and hit .280 with 13 home runs and 79 hits for Los Angeles. He later played for Boston from 1966 through 1971 and appeared with Minnesota in 1971. After his playing career, Thomas returned to his alma mater, serving as an assistant baseball coach from 1972 to 1978 and head coach from 1979 to 1981.