Remembering the Late Kimera Bartee

The baseball world was shocked and saddened to hear of the untimely death of Tigers’ first base coach Kimera Bartee, who died early Tuesday morning at the age of 49. Bartee had previously worked in the Pirates’ organization for 12 years, most recently as the first base coach/outfield instructor from 2017-19.

When the news broke, mentions of Bartee’s kindness, infectious smile and love for the game of baseball and his family were all cited in the thoughts of those who knew him best. Many took to social media to say a few words about Bartee, all with similar sentiments of shock and remembrance of someone who impacted the lives of many.

Former Pirate MVP Andrew McCutchen 

I’m speechless. We just talked 2 days ago. I’m so sad for his kids. Life is precious. Gonna miss you bro🥺. This doesn’t even seem real https://t.co/KQchiyGAqw

— Andrew McCutchen (@TheCUTCH22) December 21, 2021

Former Pirate outfielder Gregory Polanco

Gregory Polanco shared his condolences on the passing of Kimera Bartee in an IG story. pic.twitter.com/huw9EAw2YJ

— Jake Crouse (@JakeCrouseMLB) December 21, 2021

Former Pirate and Current Yankee Jameson Taillon

Dang man. RIP KB. A great father and coach. I was constantly jealous of the outfielders because they were always laughing and having the best time doing their position drill work with KB. Sorry I didn’t visit you on first base more brother.

— Jameson Taillon (@JTaillon50) December 21, 2021

Former Pirate Josh Harrison

I don’t even know what to say. I can’t believe it. Praying for your kids. Thanks for not only being a good coach but also a good friend. Gonna miss you bro https://t.co/gugzmlufRv

— Josh Harrison (@jhay_da_man) December 21, 2021

Pirate Infielder Kevin Newman

Wow…The worst news to wake up to. KB was amazing coach and an even better person. Way to soon man, way to soon. Dang. Always had a smile, always had a joke, always making those around him happy. Rest easy KB, you will be dearly missed. https://t.co/NY4s5VC9lp

— Kevin Newman (@OfficialKBN) December 21, 2021

Pirates PR Guru Jim Trdinich

One of the greatest humans I had the privilege of knowing and working with. Sad day. https://t.co/ZV7TYEj4jN

— Jimmy T (@JimmyTrdinich) December 21, 2021

Tigers Manager AJ Hinch

Words cannot describe my sadness. What we lost in baseball as a players’ coach and mentor with consistent positivity pales in comparison to what his family lost as a fiancée, father, and son. Rest In Peace, KB. 🙏🏻 https://t.co/VeZ7384H0I

— AJ Hinch (@ajhinch) December 21, 2021