Nate Colbert

Nathan Colbert Jr. (April 9, 1946 – January 5, 2023) was an American professional baseball player. He played in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a first baseman from 1966 to 1976, most prominently as a member of the newly formed San Diego Padres, who joined the league as an expansion team in 1969. He was among the inaugural inductees into the Padres Hall of Fame.

Colbert played six seasons with San Diego from 1969 to 1974, earning all three of his All-Star selections and becoming the first star player for the young franchise. He averaged 30 home runs and 85 RBIs over five seasons between 1969 and 1973. Colbert held the Padres' career record for home runs (163) until 2024, and ranks among the Padres' top 10 in numerous other offensive categories. He also played for the Houston Astros, Detroit Tigers, Montreal Expos, and the Oakland Athletics. A back injury prematurely ended his career after just 10 seasons.

After his playing career, Colbert spent several years as a hitting instructor for the Padres during spring training and later served as a hitting coach and manager in the minor leagues. He also became an ordained minister working with disadvantaged youths.