Baseball fans were saddened this weekend to learn that legendary baseball player Tim Wakefield passed away following a struggle with brain cancer.
According to Breitbart, the 57-year-old pitcher died during a seizure brought on by his cancer. Wakefield's death was quickly acknowledged by Red Sox principal owner John Henry.
"Tim’s kindness and indomitable spirit were as legendary as his knuckleball," Henry said. "He not only captivated us on the field but was the rare athlete whose legacy extended beyond the record books to the countless lives he touched with his warmth and genuine spirit."
"He had a remarkable ability to uplift, inspire, and connect with others in a way that showed us the true definition of greatness," Henry recalled.
"He embodied the very best of what it means to be a member of the Boston Red Sox, and his loss is felt deeply by all of us," the team owner stressed.
Breitbart noted that Wakefield was originally drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates before going on to spend 17 years playing in Boston.
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred was quoted as saying, "We are deeply saddened by the loss of Tim Wakefield, one of the most unique pitchers of his generation and a key part of the most successful era in the history of the Boston Red Sox."
"I extend my deepest condolences to Tim’s family, his friends and teammates across the game, and Red Sox fans everywhere," Manfred asserted.
MLB released a similar statement that recalled how Wakefield "embodied the finest qualities as a teammate, a competitor, and a caring man."
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Tim Wakefield, 19-year Major Leaguer, two-time World Series champion, 2009 AL All-Star, and the 2010 Roberto Clemente Award winner.
Tim embodied the finest qualities as a teammate, a competitor, and a caring man.
Our thoughts and… pic.twitter.com/cU7vcCcalr
— MLB (@MLB) October 1, 2023
Other tributes to Wakefield quickly appeared on social media, including from the Red Sox's official Twitter account, which declared that the team's "hearts are broken."
Our hearts are broken with the loss of Tim Wakefield.
Wake embodied true goodness; a devoted husband, father, and teammate, beloved broadcaster, and the ultimate community leader. He gave so much to the game and all of Red Sox Nation.
Our deepest love and thoughts are with… pic.twitter.com/ah5kV2Yt8j
— Red Sox (@RedSox) October 1, 2023
"Wake embodied true goodness; a devoted husband, father, and teammate, beloved broadcaster, and the ultimate community leader. He gave so much to the game and all of Red Sox Nation," it continued.
