Rick Camp, American baseball player (b. 1953)

Rick Lamar Camp, born on June 10, 1953, in Atlanta, Georgia, and passing away in his hometown on April 25, 2013, was a memorable American professional baseball pitcher whose career spanned nine seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB). Primarily known for his tenure with his hometown team, the Atlanta Braves, Camp played for the club from 1976 through 1985, leaving behind a legacy characterized by a unique blend of dedication and one truly unforgettable moment.

A Career Forged in Atlanta

Drafted by the Atlanta Braves in 1974, Rick Camp quickly rose through their minor league system, making his MLB debut just two years later. Over his nine-season career, all spent in a Braves uniform, Camp became a familiar presence on the pitching staff, serving primarily as a right-handed relief pitcher but also making several starts. His role was often crucial in bridging innings or closing out games, contributing to the Braves' efforts during a period that saw the team navigate various competitive cycles.

The Unforgettable Fireworks Game of 1985

While Camp’s career featured many appearances and contributions, he is perhaps best remembered for a single, iconic moment that transcended typical baseball narratives. On July 4, 1985, in a marathon game against the New York Mets at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium, Camp, a pitcher with no career home runs to his name, found himself at the plate in the bottom of the 18th inning. With the Braves trailing by a run, he improbably launched a solo home run off Mets pitcher Jesse Orosco, tying the game at 11-11. As Camp rounded the bases, the planned Fourth of July fireworks display, already scheduled for the end of the game, began to explode overhead, creating one of baseball’s most surreal and celebrated visuals. Although the Braves ultimately lost the game in the 19th inning, Camp's unlikely blast, which was his only career home run in 220 at-bats, remains a cherished piece of baseball lore, perfectly encapsulating the unpredictable magic of the sport.

Legacy and Later Life

Beyond his famous grand slam, Rick Camp was regarded as a reliable teammate and a steady arm for the Braves. After his playing days, he remained connected to baseball, demonstrating a lifelong passion for the sport that defined much of his life. His passing in 2013 marked the end of an era for those who remembered his contributions to the Atlanta Braves and his enduring moment in baseball history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When was Rick Camp born and when did he pass away?
Rick Camp was born on June 10, 1953, and passed away on April 25, 2013.
Which MLB team did Rick Camp play for?
He played exclusively for the Atlanta Braves during his Major League Baseball career.
How long was Rick Camp's MLB career?
Rick Camp played for a total of nine seasons, from 1976 to 1985.
What was Rick Camp's most famous career moment?
He is most famously remembered for hitting an improbable solo home run in the 18th inning of a Fourth of July game against the New York Mets in 1985, which was immediately followed by a scheduled fireworks display.
Was Rick Camp a starting pitcher or a relief pitcher?
While he made some starts, Rick Camp primarily served as a right-handed relief pitcher for the Atlanta Braves.