Tim Wakefield, Former Red Sox Pitcher, Dead at 57
The sports world is mourning a legend.
On Sunday, Oct. 1, the Boston Red Sox announced the death of one of their beloved former teammates: Tim Wakefield. The late athlete was only 57.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), the baseball team expressed, "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."
The tribute continued, "He gave so much to the game and all of Red Sox Nation. Our deepest love and thoughts are with Stacy, Trevor, Brianna, and the Wakefield family."
In response to his passing, the Red Sox changed their profile photos on social media to Wakefield's retired jersey number, 49.
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
John Henry, principal owner of the MLB team, noted in his own statement, "Tim's kindness and indomitable spirit were as legendary as his knuckleball.."
"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 continued. "He had a remarkable ability to uplift, inspire, and connect with others in a way that showed us the true definition of greatness. 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."
News of Wakefield's death comes mere days after former teammate Curt Schilling shared on his podcast that the baseball legend and his wife Stacy were both battling cancer.
The Red Sox later confirmed that the couple was privately battling undisclosed health issues: "We are aware of the statements and inquiries about the health of Tim and Stacy Wakefield. Unfortunately, this information has been shared publicly without their permission. Their health is a deeply personal matter they intended to keep private as they navigate treatment and work to tackle this disease. Tim and Stacy are appreciative of the support and love that has always been extended to them and respectfully ask for privacy at this time."
