35 years ago today the Brewers released utilityman Ed Kirkpatrick, ending a long major league career.

Kirkpatrick debuted with the Angels as a 17-year-old in 1962, becoming the last 17-year-old catcher in major league history. That was the first of his 16 major league seasons as a member of five franchises. His best year was arguably 1972, when he hit .275/.365/.396 while playing primarily behind the plate.

Over 1331 major league games Kirkpatrick racked up appearances at every defensive position but shortstop and pitcher, and appeared in 16 games s a DH. He wrapped up his major league career with 29 games as a 1977 Brewer before being released the following spring.

With help from Brewerfan.net and the B-Ref Play Index, we'd like to wish a happy birthday to:

• 2012 AZL Brewer Rodolfo Fernandez, who turns 23.
• 2012 Brevard County Manatee John Dishon, who turns 24.
• 2012 Huntsville Star Johnnie Lowe, who turns 28.
• 1990-93 Brewer Tim McIntosh, who turns 48.
• Seattle Pilot Tommy Davis, who turns 74. We covered his birthday in this space last year.