Tim Wakefield, the pitcher identified for hitting knuckleballs brilliantly and utilizing that talent to assist the Pink Sox break an 86-year World Collection drought, has died.
He was 57 years outdated.
He realized final week that Wakefield was affected by mind most cancers after former teammate Curt Schilling revealed the information on a podcast.
In keeping with pals, Wakefield succumbed to a bout brought on by mind most cancers.
The Pink Sox launched an announcement mourning the demise of a longtime participant and buddy of the franchise.
Tim Wakefield #49 of the Boston Pink Sox in opposition to the New York Yankees on September 25, 2011, at Yankee Stadium within the Bronx, New York Metropolis. (Nick Laham/Getty Photos)
“Tim’s kindness and indomitable spirit have been as legendary as his soccer,” stated John Henry, principal proprietor of the Pink Sox. “Not solely did he captivate us on the sector, he was the uncommon athlete whose legacy prolonged far past the document books to the numerous lives he touched together with his heat and real spirit.
“He had an unimaginable skill to uplift, encourage and join with others in a means that confirmed us the true definition of greatness. He embodied the very best of what it means to be a member of the Boston Pink Sox, and his loss is deeply felt by all of us.”
Wakefield spent 17 of his 19 MLB seasons in Boston, a document variety of years for a Pink Sox participant. Initially, the Pirates drafted him to the majors with the concept that he can be a catcher. Nevertheless, Wakefield used his sting within the minor leagues to give attention to growing the elite soccer that will propel him to MLB stardom and 186 profession victories.
The soccer participant additionally set information for begins (430) and hits (3006).
Amongst his many accomplishments, he’s finest identified for bouncing again after giving up a game-winning residence run to the Yankees within the 2003 ALCS and pitching three scoreless further innings in a pivotal Recreation 5 earlier than David Ortiz got here on and gained it for Boston within the 14th inning.
“We’re deeply saddened by the lack of Tim Wakefield, one of the vital excellent pitchers of his technology and a key a part of essentially the most profitable period in Boston Pink Sox historical past,” Main League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred stated.
Tim Wakefield, No. 49 of the Boston Pink Sox, reacts after incomes his two hundredth win after a sport with the Toronto Blue Jays at Fenway Park on September 13, 2011, in Boston, Massachusetts. (Jim Rogash/Getty Photos)
“My deepest condolences to Tim’s household, pals, teammates and Pink Sox followers in every single place.”
Finally, Wakefield would win two World Collection titles with the Pink Sox in 2004 and 2007.
However Wakefield’s time with the Pink Sox wouldn’t finish when his taking part in profession did, on the finish of the 2011 season. As a substitute, the veteran remained with the franchise as Chairman Emeritus of the Pink Sox Basis.
Tim Wakefield is survived by his spouse and two kids.