Beloved Former Red Sox Pitcher Tim Wakefield Dies at Age 57

Former teammates of Tim Wakefield mourned the loss of the beloved former knuckleballer who passed away at the age of 57. Wakefield had been battling brain cancer, a diagnosis that was unfortunately revealed to the public without his permission by his former Red Sox teammate Curt Schilling. The news of Wakefield’s passing left his former teammates heartbroken and at a loss for words.

Mike Lowell, who played five seasons on the Red Sox with Wakefield, expressed his grief on social media, saying, “My heart is broken and I have no words. RIP Wake. You were one of the good ones and a great teammate. Red Sox Nation will forever be grateful. Thank you for your friendship.”

Roger Clemens, who was teammates with Wakefield on the Red Sox for five seasons before facing him as a rival with the Blue Jays and Yankees, shared a similar sentiment. He described Wakefield as a great person, teammate, and golfing companion. Clemens expressed his sadness and sent his condolences to Wakefield’s family.

Kevin Youkilis, who played eight seasons with Wakefield in Boston, paid tribute to his former teammate during a Red Sox game broadcast. Youkilis, who is now NESN’s lead color analyst, described Wakefield as a great competitor and a great friend. He emphasized Wakefield’s role as a husband, father, and community leader, highlighting his love for people and his positive impact on others.

Adam Pellerin, who worked with Wakefield at NESN, shared a personal anecdote about Wakefield’s generosity. Pellerin mentioned that Wakefield donated $1,000 to his charity run in the Boston Marathon, demonstrating his kindness and willingness to support others.

The Red Sox organization also posted a tribute to Wakefield, honoring his contributions on and off the field. They described him as a devoted husband, father, teammate, beloved broadcaster, and ultimate community leader. The team expressed their love and thoughts for Wakefield’s family during this difficult time.

Wakefield, known as one of the best knuckleballers in baseball history, won two World Series titles with the Red Sox in 2004 and 2007. He spent 17 seasons with the team, the most by any pitcher in club history.

Major League Baseball also expressed their condolences for Wakefield’s passing. They praised him for embodying the finest qualities as a teammate, competitor, and caring man. Their thoughts and prayers were with the Wakefield family and all who knew and loved him.

Various sports organizations and figures, including the Pittsburgh Pirates and the New York Yankees, also paid tribute to Wakefield, acknowledging his impact on the game and expressing their sympathies to his loved ones and the Red Sox and NESN families.

Wakefield began his Major League career with the Pirates before joining the Red Sox and spending the rest of his career with the franchise.