Blue Jays’ icon Ward passes away at 62
Duane Ward, a legendary relief pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays and two-time World Series champion, has passed away at age 62. The organization and former colleagues are mourning the loss of a player who was instrumental in the team's early 1990s success.
Why it matters
Ward was a significant figure in Canadian sports history, and his death marks the loss of a key contributor to one of baseball's most iconic franchises.
TORONTO — Duane Ward, a two-time World Series champion and one of the most accomplished relievers in Toronto Blue Jays history, has died at 62.
The Blue Jays said Sunday that Ward died of natural causes in Toronto. He had arrived in the city Friday ahead of the team’s ceremony honouring its 1992 and 1993 championship teams but was absent from Saturday’s festivities at Rogers Centre.
“It is with profound sadness that the Toronto Blue Jays mourn the passing of pitcher Duane Ward, one of the most accomplished and beloved relievers in franchise history,” the Blue Jays said in a statement.
“Duane will be deeply missed by our fans, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family. Duane will always be a cherished part of the Blue Jays family, and we will be forever grateful for his contributions to our organization and to baseball in Canada.”
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in