Ron Luciano

From BR Bullpen

Ronald Michael Luciano

• Height 6' 4", Weight 240 lb.
• School Syracuse University

• Born June 28, 1937 in Endicott, NY USA
• Died January 18, 1995 in Endicott, NY USA

• Was drafted in the 3rd round of the 1959 NFL draft by the Detroit Lions
• Umpire in the Florida State League (1966), Southern League (1967-1968), and American League from 1969 to 1979. Worked three league championship series and the 1974 World Series.
• Worked Nolan Ryan's second career no-hitter on July 15, 1972. After Norm Cash had struck out his first three times in the game, he came to bat with a piano leg. Luciano forced him to return with a regular bat.
• Known for his flamboyant style as an umpire. Frequently got into conflicts with Orioles manager Earl Weaver.
• Author of four books including "The Umpire Strikes Back" (1982), "Strike Two" (1984), and "Fall of the Roman Umpire" (1986).
• Became a commentator on NBC baseball telecasts in 1980s.
• Died of carbon monoxide poisoning in 1995. It was deemed a suicide.