Alex Johnson, AL Batting Champ In 1970, Dies At Age 72

DETROIT (AP) — Alex Johnson, who won the American League batting title with the then-California Angels in 1970, has died. He was 72.

Alex Johnson Jr. said Wednesday that his father died Saturday of complications from prostate cancer.

The elder Johnson, a Detroit native, played for eight teams in his 13-year career. He won the American League batting crown with a .329 average in 1970 as a member of the Angels.

Johnson had 78 home runs, 525 RBIs and a .288 average over his career. His final season was in 1976 with the Detroit Tigers when he had six homers, 45 RBIs and a .268 average in 125 games.

He also played for the Philadelphia Phillies, St. Louis Cardinals, Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Indians, Texas Rangers and New York Yankees.

Funeral services are scheduled Friday at Sacred Heart Church in Detroit.

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