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65 years ago, Tigers legend Al Kaline threw a runner out — from his butt

Looking back on the career of Detroit Tigers star outfielder Al Kaline as 'Mr. Tiger' turns 84 on Dec. 19, 2018. Ryan Ford, Detroit Free Press

When Al Kaline threw out a Chicago White Sox baserunner in three consecutive innings 65 years ago — in July 1954 — only 5,099 fans were in the green seats of Briggs Stadium. For his next career-defining defensive feat, five weeks later, 53,778 fans were jammed into Briggs Stadium.

On Aug. 10, 1954, a Tuesday night, the Tigers were playing the first-place Cleveland Indians — owners of baseball’s best record at 76-32 (.