Baseball legend 'Doc' Hideg passes away at 84

Local baseball legend Dr. Frank “Doc” Hideg passed away on Monday morning at the age of 84. 

Doc grew up in Madison, Illinois, where he excelled in basketball and baseball. After graduating from chiropractic school in 1968, Doc began his chiropractic career in Paducah and was recognized by the Kentucky Association of Chiropractors with a Lifetime Achievement award in 2012.

Doc was also well known for his baseball achievements in Paducah, serving as the manager of the American Legion Post 31 baseball team from 1974-1997. Doc is credited for saving Brooks Stadium from demolition by securing labor and funding to restore and renovate the ballpark. He was dedicated to meticulously maintaining the field for more than 30 years. The field at Brooks Stadium is named in his honor.  

Doc is also credited with a major role in bringing the Paducah Chiefs collegiate team back to the area.

Visitation will be held on Thursday at Brooks Stadium from 5-8 pm. A Funeral Mass will be at St. Francis de Sales on Friday at 11:00 am.  More info is available at Milner and Orr's obituary page .


Photo: After being named a Kentucky Colonel, Doc Hideg gets a standing ovation from the Brooks Stadium crowd on June 13, 2026.  (Paducah Chiefs)