Normand Fisher, the father of Toronto Blue Jays relief pitcher Braydon Fisher, died at the age of 65 on Monday. His death occurred during the Blue Jays' road trip to California, following a stroke he suffered after visiting high school friends in Vanden, California.
Braydon Fisher, who has been on the bereavement list since his father's passing, described Normand as an "amazing person" who was always happy and willing to help others. Normand Fisher, who served eight years as an Air Force officer, was a dedicated supporter of his son's baseball career and an avid fan of the Blue Jays, often seen wearing team gear.
"He always supported me in every single way," Braydon Fisher said, as quoted by MLB.com. "He did everything he could to make sure I achieved the dream I’d talked about since I was five."
The Blue Jays organization has provided support to Fisher and his family, arranging flights and accommodations and offering him time to grieve. Fisher is expected to be activated from the bereavement list during the team's series against the San Diego Padres.
Fisher, 25, made his MLB debut last season and has become a key member of the Blue Jays' bullpen. In his debut season, he posted a 7-0 record with a 2.70 ERA over 52 games, striking out 62 batters in 50 innings. This season, he has continued his performance with a 3-3 record and a 3.33 ERA in 43 games, recording 46 strikeouts in 46 innings pitched.