Duane Ward, a distinguished pitcher and two-time World Series champion with the Toronto Blue Jays, passed away at the age of 62 due to natural causes in Toronto. The Blue Jays confirmed his death on Sunday, noting his absence from the team’s recent ceremony honoring the championship teams of 1992 and 1993.
Recognizing Ward as one of the most revered relievers in franchise history, the Blue Jays expressed deep sadness over his passing and extended condolences to his family. Ward, who played 452 games for the Blue Jays from 1986 to 1995, ranks high in the team’s history with 121 saves, including a single-season franchise record of 45 saves in 1993.
Paul Beeston, a key figure in building the Blue Jays’ championship teams, shared his shock at Ward’s passing, reminiscing about their shared experiences and Ward’s significant contributions to Canadian baseball. Beeston highlighted Ward’s dedication to promoting baseball across the country through coaching clinics and player programs.
Ward, inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame in 2020, began his MLB career with the Atlanta Braves in 1986 before joining the Blue Jays later that year. He formed a formidable bullpen duo with Tom Henke and eventually became the team’s closer after Henke’s departure post the 1992 season.
Notably, Ward was the winning pitcher in the iconic Game 6 of the 1993 World Series when Joe Carter hit his famous walk-off home run. Despite missing the 1994 season due to injury and retiring after the 1995 season, Ward’s impact on Blue Jays history remains significant.
The Blue Jays paid tribute to Ward with a video montage and a moment of silence before their game against the Chicago White Sox, honoring his pivotal role in the team’s success and the cherished memories he created. Beeston described Ward as a resilient and independent individual, expressing sorrow over his untimely passing during a time meant for celebration.