Bruce Kimm's journey in professional baseball began when he was drafted by the Chicago White Sox in the seventh round of the 1969 MLB Draft. A catcher by trade, Kimm spent several years honing his skills in the minor leagues before making his major league debut with the Detroit Tigers in 1976. During his rookie season, he had the opportunity to catch for the legendary pitcher Mark Fidrych, who was known for his eccentric behavior on the mound. Kimm's role as Fidrych's catcher during the latter's remarkable rookie season is often remembered by baseball enthusiasts.
Kimm's playing career in the major leagues spanned parts of four seasons from 1976 to 1980. After his time with the Tigers, he went on to play for the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox. Although his major league playing career was relatively brief, Kimm continued to be involved in baseball, transitioning into coaching and managing roles after retiring as a player.
In the years following his playing career, Kimm became a respected figure in the coaching ranks. He served as a coach for several major league teams, including the Cincinnati Reds, Pittsburgh Pirates, and San Diego Padres. His experience and knowledge of the game made him a valuable asset to the teams he worked with.
In 2002, Kimm took on the role of interim manager for the Chicago Cubs after the team dismissed their previous manager, Don Baylor. Kimm managed the Cubs for the remainder of the season, guiding them through a challenging period. Although his tenure as manager was short-lived, it was a testament to his understanding of the game and his ability to lead a team.
Throughout his career, Bruce Kimm was known for his work ethic and his ability to connect with players.
⚾