Tim Wakefield, a cherished figure in Boston Red Sox lore and a two-time World Series champion, has passed away at the age of 57 after a courageous battle with brain cancer, the team announced on Sunday.
Wakefield's baseball journey began with the Pittsburgh Pirates before he became an integral part of the Red Sox roster in 1995, enjoying a remarkable 17-year career. His contributions played a pivotal role in securing World Series victories for Boston in 2004 and 2007.
In their statement, the Red Sox expressed understanding of the public interest in Tim and Stacy Wakefield's health but emphasized the family's wish to maintain privacy as they navigate treatment and confront this challenging illness.
Originally drafted as a first baseman, Wakefield made a remarkable transition to pitching, mastering the knuckleball in the minor leagues. He achieved an impressive milestone of 200 major league wins, with 186 of those wins earned in a Red Sox uniform, a feat surpassed in franchise history only by Cy Young and Roger Clemens. Tim Wakefield's legacy in Boston and the world of baseball will be remembered with great warmth and respect.
