Tom Timmermann, a veteran of six major league seasons with the Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Guardians from 1969-74, died Friday. He was 85.

Timmermann's death was confirmed on social media by his niece, Cindy .

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After signing his first professional contract with the Tigers out of Southern Illinois University in 1960, Timmermann spent parts of 10 seasons in the minor leagues before debuting in 1969.

By 1970, Timmermann was the Tigers' primary closer, recording 27 saves in 61 appearances. After the 1970 season, the team gave him the "Tiger of the Year" award.

From 1969-73, Timmermann went 26-27 with a 3.39 ERA (105 ERA+) for Detroit, shuffling between the starting rotation and the bullpen.

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