Former Red Sox pitcher Tim Wakefield dead at 57

Red Sox Hall of Famer Tim Wakefield has died at the age of 55. The team praised his character and contributions to the game.

The Boston Red Sox organization expressed their deep sorrow and grief over the loss of Tim Wakefield, a beloved figure within the team and the community. Wakefield was not only a successful athlete but also a devoted husband, father, teammate, and community leader. His impact on the game and the Red Sox Nation was immeasurable.

During his career, Wakefield achieved great success, winning two World Series championships with the Red Sox in 2004 and 2007. He spent an impressive 29 years in Boston's organization and held the honorary position of chairman of the Red Sox Foundation. Unfortunately, his death occurred shortly after his former teammate Curt Schilling revealed, without permission, that Wakefield was battling brain cancer. The Red Sox confirmed his illness but respected his privacy by not providing further details.

Originally drafted as a first baseman by the Pittsburgh Pirates, Wakefield made a remarkable transition to become a pitcher after mastering the knuckleball in the minor leagues. He went on to win 200 major league games, with 186 of those victories achieved with the Red Sox, placing him behind only Cy Young and Roger Clemens in the team's history.

Throughout his career, Wakefield received numerous accolades, including being named the American League's Comeback Player of the Year in 1995. He was also selected as an All-Star in 2009 and was inducted into the Red Sox Hall of Fame in 2016. Wakefield's commitment to sportsmanship and community involvement was recognized through his eight nominations for the Roberto Clemente Award, which he won in 2010.

After retiring from professional baseball, Wakefield became an analyst for Red Sox broadcasts and continued to actively participate in the team's charitable endeavors. His kindness, spirit, and exceptional character were praised by Red Sox principal owner John Henry, chairman Tom Werner, and president and CEO Sam Kennedy. They emphasized that Wakefield's impact extended far beyond his on-field success, as he touched countless lives with his warmth and genuine spirit.

Wakefield's dedication to philanthropy was evident through his involvement with the Red Sox Foundation, the Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon, and the Pitching in for Kids organization. He also supported the Space Coast Early Intervention Center in Melbourne, Florida, which provides specialized care for children with special needs. Wakefield's efforts in raising funds for cancer research and care were highly commendable.

The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute recognized Wakefield's selflessness and commitment to supporting cancer patients. He regularly visited the hospital to meet patients and participated in events to raise funds for cancer research. The institute expressed their condolences to Wakefield's family, fans, and the Red Sox organization.

In addition to his wife Stacy, Wakefield leaves behind his children Trevor and Brianna. His legacy as a remarkable athlete, humanitarian, and role model will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.