Fritz Peterson, Yankees Pitcher Involved in Notorious Wife Swap, Dies at 82

Fritz Peterson, a former pitcher for the New York Yankees, known for his on-field achievements and off-field eccentricities, has passed away at the age of 82. Peterson, who battled prostate cancer and Alzheimer’s disease, was a stalwart pitcher for the Yankees during a challenging period in the late 1960s and early ’70s.

Despite the Yankees’ struggles during his time with the team, Peterson shone as a leading light in the rotation, winning 109 games over eight seasons. He was known for his effective pitching style, utilizing a palm ball and exceptional control on the mound. Off the field, Peterson was a prankster who enjoyed the camaraderie of the locker room, often engaging in mischief with his teammates.

However, Peterson’s most notorious moment came in 1973 when it was revealed that he and teammate Mike Kekich had exchanged wives and families. The scandal made headlines and caused a stir in the baseball world, but Peterson and Susanne Kekich remained together, eventually getting married in 1974.

After leaving the Yankees, Peterson continued his career with the Cleveland Indians and Texas Rangers before retiring in 1976. He then pursued various endeavors, including working as an insurance salesman, blackjack dealer, and author.

Peterson’s legacy in baseball is a mix of on-field success and off-field controversy, but he will be remembered as a unique figure in the sport’s history. His passing marks the end of an era for the Yankees and the baseball world as a whole.