Of the 35 players who put on a Pirates uniform in 1971 it would be hard to find a more obscure player than Lorenzo ‘Rimp’ Lanier. He was an outfielder- third baseman who the Pirates drafted in the 37th round in the 1967 draft. He would play in their minor league organization from 1957-73. As a minor league player he would hit .289 in 633 games. All I can remember about Rimp Lanier – is his nickname and that he was small- 5’8 150 and fast. His major league career was brief- September 11, 1971 to September 26th 1971. The Pirates had called him up when rosters could expand in September- and he was used mainly as a pinch -runner. He had 4 official at bats and no hits.

Rimp Lanier was born in Tuskegee, Alabama in 1948. He graduated from high school in Cleveland, Ohio. He hit left handed and threw right-handed. He is still living- 72 years old.

Interesting- in both photos he has a toothpick in his mouth. U.L. Washington a shortstop for the KC Royals [who finished his career in Pittsburgh] was noted for playing with a toothpick hanging out of his mouth. Don’t do that at home kids.