The baseball world is mourning the death of former Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Duane Ward, who died at the age of 62. The team announced his passing on Sunday, citing natural causes. Ward's death occurred the same weekend a tribute was held for the Blue Jays' back-to-back World Series-winning teams of the early 1990s.
Ward had returned to Toronto on Friday, but he was absent from Saturday's ceremony at Rogers Centre, which celebrated the 1992 and 1993 championship victories. Over 20 players and coaches from that era gathered for the unveiling of a statue commemorating their triumphs.
"Duane will be deeply missed by our fans, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family," the Blue Jays said in a statement. "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."
Ward was a key member of the Blue Jays' pitching staff during their historic runs. He served as the setup man in the eighth inning for the team's first World Series victory in 1992. The following season, he stepped into the closer role, helping to secure wins in 1993.
"Whether setting the stage in the eighth inning or closing out wins, he will be remembered for the role he played in some of the greatest moments in Blue Jays history," the team added.
Ward began his major league career with the Atlanta Braves in 1986 but was traded to the Blue Jays later that same year. He played the remainder of his career in Canada. Following the Blue Jays' second World Series title, Ward missed the entire 1994 season due to an arm injury. He returned in 1995, appearing in only four games before retiring that year.