Bill Robinson passed away today:

Bill Robinson, the Dodgers' Minor League hitting coordinator, died Sunday, the club announced. He was 64, and cause of death was not known. Memorial services are pending.

"Bill was a wonderful family man and a great baseball player, coach, manager and friend to everyone he met," said Dodger general manager Ned Colletti. "Even though he never played for the Dodgers, it was an honor that he chose to be a part of the organization. Everyone he came into contact with was better for having known him.

"He had everyone's best interest in mind at all times, and he cared deeply about the development of our young players. He will be missed by everyone in the game of baseball, and our deepest sympathies are with his family, particularly Mary Alice, Bill Jr. and Kelley."

I worked with Bill for two years at ESPN and I echo Ned Colletti's sentiments. Bill was a great guy, always a gentleman, always appreciative of any help you sent his way. I once reminded him of a catch I saw him make when he was playing for the Yankees in 1969, falling into the stands to steal a home run. He remembered the catch, but felt old when I offered that I was only nine when that happened. I'll always remember him fondly.

My thoughts go out to his family and friends.