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Carroll Hardy, who hit for Ted Williams and built Broncos' 'Orange Crush' dies at 87

HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. -- Carroll Hardy, a multi-sport star best known as the only man ever to pinch hit for Ted Williams, died Sunday at age 87.

Hardy was also known as the football executive who helped assemble the "Orange Crush" defense in Denver during the 1970s.

The University of Colorado, where Hardy was a three-sport star, said he died of complications from dementia. He is survived by his wife and three children.

Hardy went on to play professional baseball and football after starring in track, baseball and football at Colorado from 1951-55.

CU athletic director Rick George called Hardy "a true icon of the state.