Kell never played for Cleveland, and before today, I don't know that I had ever heard of him. But earlier today, he passed away at his home in Swifton, Arkansas.
Swifton is about 200 miles northeast from where I live.
Kell played for the A's, Tigers, Red Sox, White Sox, and Orioles during a 15-year career in the majors. He was chosen for 13 all-star teams. He had an overall .971 fielding percentage and a .306 batting average. Kell was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1983.
After playing, he was a broadcaster for the Tigers, Orioles, and network stations. He served on the Arkansas State Highway Commission and owned a car dealership.
He was born in Arkansas and died in his hometown. A full life come full circle.