BOSTON – (www.boston.com) Tim Wakefield, the knuckleball pitcher who helped the Boston Red Sox win two World Series championships, died Sunday at the age of 57. He was recently diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer.
Wakefield played for the Red Sox from 1995 to 2011. He ranks third in team history with 186 wins, second in games pitched (590), first in innings pitched (3,006), and second in strikeouts (2,046). He also won the Roberto Clemente Award for community service in 2010.
Wakefield was a key member of the Red Sox’s 2004 World Series championship team. He pitched 3.5 innings of relief in Game 3 of the ALCS against the Yankees, giving the Sox enough pitching to win Game 4. He then worked three innings of shutout relief to win Game 5, which ended in the 14th inning on David Ortiz’s walkoff single.
Wakefield also played a significant role in the Red Sox’s 2007 World Series championship. He won Game 1 of the ALCS against the Cleveland Indians and Game 2 of the World Series against the Colorado Rockies.
Wakefield was a beloved figure in Boston. He was known for his kindness, his sense of humor, and his competitive fire. He was also a mentor to many young players, including Steven Wright, another knuckleballer who played for the Red Sox.
“Tim’s kindness and indomitable spirit were as legendary as his knuckleball,” said John Henry, the principal owner of the Red Sox, in a statement issued by the team. “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. 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.”
Wakefield will be deeply missed by the Red Sox organization and by fans everywhere. He was a true champion and a great role model.
