Former Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Tim Wakefield died unexpectedly on Sunday morning at age 57, according to reports.
Wakefield died from brain cancer, The MLB reported.
The former Boston Red Sox player is survived by his wife, Stacy, and their children, Trevor and Brianna.
It is also reported that Stacy Wakefield is battling pancreatic cancer, according to Tim’s former teammate Curt Schilling.
“This is not a message that Tim has asked anyone to share, and I don’t even know if he wants it shared, but as a Christian, and as a man of faith, I have seen prayer work, so I am going to talk about it,” Schilling said on his podcast on Wednesday.
“Tim’s wife Stacy, who is one of the nicest women you’ll ever meet, is very sick with pancreatic cancer. Recently, Tim was diagnosed with a very serious, a very aggressive form of brain cancer,” the statement added.
RIP Tim Wakefield. pic.twitter.com/bmSAfQta1m
— Boston Strong (@BostonStrong_34) October 1, 2023
Wakefield’s sudden death was confirmed by the Red Sox in a statement on Sunday:
“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 Stacy, Trevor, Brianna, and the Wakefield family.”
Tim Wakefield is a celebrated member of the 2004 Red Sox, who came back from a 3-0 deficit against the rival New York Yankees to win the American League Championship Series, the Daily Mail reports.
After volunteering to pitch in relief during a blowout loss to the Yankees in Game 3 of the ALCS, the knuckleballer was pivotal in the postseason, saving the other pitchers’ arms for the historic comeback.
Meanwhile, tributes poured in for Tim Wakefield as teammates and fans reacted to Red Sox player’s sudden death.
The Boston Red Sox wrote:
“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.”
Hall of Famer David Ortiz wrote:
“I can’t describe what you mean to me and my family, my heart is broken right now because l will never be able to replace a brother and a friend like you.”
Legendary pitcher Roger Clemens wrote:
“Well…this is heartbreaking news. A great person, great teammate, and great golfing companion for many of our playing years.
I told him many times, playing alongside [sic] of him, what a great competitor he is. Hugs to his family and extended family. Miss you pal.”
Former Sox infielder Kevin Youkilis wrote:
“He was a great competitor. When he took that mound, he was just a great teammate. And just a great friend. And I had the luxury to play with him on the field [and] on the booth. [I’m] just glad that I had the opportunity over the years to be alongside him.”
Boston sportswriter Bob Ryan wrote:
“I am sadder than sad. Tim Wakefield has died due to a brain tumor at age. 57. He was real. He was CLASS. This is truly horrible news.”
Red Sox owner John Henry wrote:
“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 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.”
The MLB added:
“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 prayers are with the Wakefield family and all who knew and loved Tim.”
READ: 53 Performers Who’ve Died Suddenly, Collapsed, Fallen ill in the Last 3 Months – FULL LIST
