The Boston Red Sox announced the death of Tim Wakefield, a longtime right-handed pitcher, on Sunday. He was 57 years old.
The team described Wakefield as someone who represents true goodness, a devoted family man, a beloved teammate, a broadcaster, and a community leader. They expressed their deepest condolences and thoughts to Wakefield’s family.
Wakefield played in 627 games over 19 seasons as a knuckleballer. He had a career ERA of 4.41 (105 ERA+) and a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 1.79. According to Baseball-Reference’s calculations, he had an estimated 34.4 Wins Above Replacement.
Wakefield started his career with the Pittsburgh Pirates but was released in the 1995 season and then joined the Red Sox. Despite starting with the Red Sox when he was 28 years old, he went on to become the franchise leader in games started and innings pitched. He also ranks third in wins and sixth in Wins Above Replacement.
Tim Wakefield’s Red Sox Franchise Ranks
- Wins: 186 (3rd)
- Innings pitched: 3,006 (1st)
- Strikeouts: 2,046 (2nd)
Wakefield spent 17 of his 19 big-league seasons with the Red Sox. He made one All-Star Game appearance and won two World Series titles with the team. He was also the recipient of the Roberto Clemente Award, which recognizes individuals who exemplify the game of baseball, sportsmanship, community involvement, and contributions to their team. After retiring, Wakefield remained involved with the Red Sox community as a personality on NESN and an honorary chairman for the Red Sox Foundation.
Red Sox owner John Henry praised Wakefield’s kindness, spirit, and ability to uplift and inspire others. He said that Wakefield embodied the best of what it means to be a member of the Boston Red Sox and that his loss is deeply felt by everyone.
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred also expressed his sadness over Wakefield’s passing. He described Wakefield as a unique pitcher and a key part of the Red Sox’s successful era. He highlighted Wakefield’s knuckleball skills and his contributions both on and off the field, including his win of the Roberto Clemente Award.
Last week, Wakefield’s former teammate Curt Schilling revealed that Wakefield had been diagnosed with brain cancer. The Red Sox responded by noting that the information was shared without the family’s consent.
