Baseball's Rob Picciolo Dies At 64

ANAHEIM, CA — Longtime Anaheim Angels coach Rob Picciolo died Wednesday, his family told the Orange County Register. The cause of death was not released. He was 64.

Picciolo was a longtime Angels coach from 2006-13, serving as the Angels bench coach in his final seasons with the club. From 2006 to 2010, he worked as the Angels' roving infield instructor. He had previously coached with the Padres, from 1990-2005.

"There are certain individuals you meet in life & respect because they ‘just get it,’" Tim Mead, vice president of Angels communications, said over Twitter late Wednesday night. "Their daily outlook is filled with optimism, laughter, caring and compassion. And they are always open to sharing those traits with others. #RIPPeach"

According to the San Diego Union Tribune, Picciolo spent 20 years in the Padres organization, under managers Greg Riddoch, Jim Riggleman and Bruce Bochy.

Picciolo played nine seasons in the majors, including the 1984 season with the Angels. He was primarily a shortstop, but also played third base and second base. He was a backup infielder for the 1982 Milwaukee Brewers, which reached the World Series.

Picciolo starred at Westchester High, Santa Monica College and Pepperdine before signing with the Oakland A's in 1974, according to the Register.

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