Tucson Old Timers (TOTS)
60-and-over baseball
Floyd Lance, 91, the oldest player to ever take the field for the 60-and-over Tucson Old Timers (TOTS), collided with a runner at first base last week and re injured his shoulder.
Lance, who had rotator cuff surgery in 2005, had an X-ray taken of his shoulder just hours after the TOTS' game on Monday. The result of the X-ray shows a significant tear and it looks like Lance's playing days are over.
Tuesday the news wasn't good. Floyd's surgeon said the tear is inoperable. Right now Floyd is dealing with pain and discomfort, but trying his best to stay away from the painkillers.
"I'm done," Lance said this morning, prior to a TOTS' game.
Lance, who turns 92 in September, did leave the door open, though...slightly, saying -- "After some rehab I might be able to play defense, but right now I'm unable to move my right arm more than a few inches...up or down."
Lance, nicknamed "Sir Floyd" for his longevity with the TOTS, joined the amateur baseball organization in 1999 and has played in 1,208 games, batted 3,403 times, scored 968 runs, collected 1,471 hits and knocked in 598 runs. He maintained a .500-plus batting average through 2013, and recently ended 2016 with a career batting average of .432.
Floyd has been a standout first baseman all these years with the TOTS. His ability to field tough throws at first base is legendary. At 6-1, he's tall and lanky, and gives the infielders a big target to throw to. Floyd's teammates have grown to expect the unexpected when he's at first base. Lance, year after year, has consistently fielded his position with skill and grace.
Floyd Lance is one of a kind. Fans, opponents of his, his teammates -- all marvel at his ability to play ball competitively into his 90s.
Hats off to you, Floyd.
Photo: Sir Floyd Lance
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