New Orleans Zephyrs Statement on the Passing of Mike Coolbaugh
"The New Orleans Zephyrs are saddened to learn of the death of Mike Coolbaugh last night. Mike was a member of the 2004 New Orleans Zephyrs. He was a fan favorite who provided exciting play and sportsmanship on a nightly basis. The Zephyrs will honor his memory with a moment of silence tomorrow night before the game. Our prayers go out to his entire family."
Coolbaugh is tied with Phil Hiatt for the Zephyrs single-season home run record with 30, a record both players set together during the 2004 season.
To honor Coolbaugh, the Zephyrs will hold a moment of silence before the national anthem on Tuesday night's game. The team will also show a video tribute to Coolbaugh in the seventh inning of their Friday, July 27 game. To raise money for the Mike Coolbaugh Memorial Fund, the Zephyrs are encouraging fans to come to the Capital One Customer Service booth during games and make a minimum $5 donation in exchange for tickets to the Zephyrs Saturday, Aug. 18 game vs. the Oklahoma RedHawks, which will be 'Mike Coolbaugh Night.'
Minor League Baseball president, Mike Moore, issued the following statement today regarding the death of Tulsa Drillers hitting coach Mike Coolbaugh:
"I am deeply saddened by the tragic death of Mike Coolbaugh. The hearts and prayers of the Minor League Baseball world go out to his entire family. I would ask that everyone keep the Tulsa Drillers team in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. I am asking all Minor League Baseball clubs to fly their flags at half-mast and observe a moment of silence tonight before their games in memory of Mike."
Checks can be made payable to the Mike Coolbaugh Memorial Fund and sent to:
Mike Coolbaugh Memorial Fund
c/o Spirit Bank
1800 S. Baltimore Ave.
Tulsa, OK 74119