Rob Picciolo, an Angels coach from 2006-13, has died, according to his family. He was 64.
Picciolo died Wednesday, his family told the Orange County Register. The cause of death was not released.
Picciolo was the Angels bench coach in his final seasons with the club. From 2006 to 2010, he served as the Angels’ roving infield instructor. He had previously coached with the Padres, from 1990-2005.
“The Halos family is extremely saddened by the loss of our friend Rob Picciolo,” according to the Angels. “His kind spirit radiated throughout the clubhouse as a player and a coach. He will be missed by many associated with MLB and beyond.”
The San Diego Padres also issued a statement, saying Picciolo “dedicated a decade and a half to our organization and was a tremendous asset as a coach, but more significantly, as a person. We send our heartfelt sympathy to the entire Picciolo family during this difficult time.”
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.
— City News Service