Todd Stottlemyre Shares Memories of Duane Ward Before Pitcher's Death

Former Blue Jays pitcher Todd Stottlemyre has shared personal details following the unexpected death of his teammate Duane Ward. Ward, a key figure in the Toronto Blue Jays' back-to-back World Series victories in 1992 and 1993, passed away at the age of 62 before ceremonies honoring those championship teams were scheduled to take place.

"We all came together in Toronto for a special celebration and tribute. With my deepest regret I am making this post," Stottlemyre wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "We had no idea our Friday night dinner and the photo I posted was going to be the last time we were going to see Duane Ward. From celebration to sadness in a moment. May God rest your soul BlueJay brother and warrior on the mound."

Stottlemyre and Ward were teammates in Toronto from 1988 to 1994. Ward is remembered as one of the Blue Jays' most effective relief pitchers, holding the franchise record for saves in a single season with 45 in 1993. That same year, he made his sole All-Star appearance and contributed significantly to the team's playoff success, recording four saves, including two in the World Series.

The Blue Jays organization expressed their condolences, stating, "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."

Ward began his Major League Baseball career after being drafted ninth overall by the Atlanta Braves in 1982. He was traded to Toronto during his first full MLB season in 1986 and remained with the team for the duration of his career.

The Blue Jays honored Ward with a video montage and a moment of silence before their game against the Chicago White Sox on Sunday. Stottlemyre added, "You will never be forgotten. Without your contribution there would be no BACK TO BACK. Life is short and we will never know when we will be called. Give someone a hug today and reach out to a loved one and tell them how much you love them."