Former Tiger Dave Bergman dies at 61

Former Detroit Tigers first baseman Dave Bergman died Monday after a long battle with cancer. He was 61.

Bergman, who spent nine of his 17 seasons with the Tigers, was a key member of Detroit's 1984 World Series-winning team. He slashed .273/.351/.417 with seven homers over 120 games that year, his first season with the club after being acquired in a trade with the Philadelphia Phillies.

Bergman's death prompted an outpouring of support and condolences from players and coaches, who described their ex-teammate as the consummate professional with exceptional character.

"It is with heavy hearts we extend our condolences to the family of Dave Bergman," the Tigers said in a statement. "Dave was as spirited as a person as he was a player. He will forever hold a special place in Tigers history for the versatile roles he played and his significant contributions as a member of the 1984 World Champion Tigers. We will miss seeing 'Bergie' at the ballpark and in the community."

Bergman retired as a member of the Tigers in 1992 at the age of 39. His career included stops with the New York Yankees (1975-77), Houston Astros (1978-1981) and San Francisco Giants (1981-84). He never appeared in a game for the Phillies after being dealt to Detroit the same day he was traded to Philadelphia by the Giants.

"Just a super person," Tigers legend Alan Trammell told MLB.com's Jason Beck. "When you say better off the field than on, that for me would be Dave Bergman."

Bergman's on-field celebrity included a reputation for successfully pulling off the hidden-ball trick.

Bergman is survived by his wife, Cathy, and three children.

- With h/t to the Detroit Free Press