What to know
- Former Toronto Blue Jays reliever Duane Ward died in Toronto of natural causes at 62.
- Ward helped the Blue Jays win consecutive World Series championships in 1992 and 1993.
- Rod Black remembered Ward as an “absolute beast” on the mound and “one of the sweetest dudes” away from the game.
- Baseball organizations praised Ward’s work mentoring young athletes and leading clinics across Canada.
The baseball world is mourning Toronto Blue Jays legend Duane Ward, remembering the two-time World Series champion not only as a dominant reliever but as a kind-hearted mentor who continued giving back to the game long after his playing career ended.
Ward died in Toronto of natural causes at 62, according to a statement released by the Blue Jays.
He arrived in Toronto on Friday alongside members of the 1992 and 1993 championship teams but was absent from Saturday’s ceremony, where the club unveiled a statue celebrating Joe Carter’s World Series-winning home run.
Ward was one of the defining pitchers of that era. He recorded 121 saves during his Blue Jays career and helped the team capture consecutive World Series titles. In 1993, he was named an American League All-Star and led the league with a franchise-record 45 saves.
However, the tributes shared following his death focused just as much on the person he was away from the mound.
Canadian sportscaster Rod Black remembered Ward as both a fearsome pitcher and a close friend.
“Heartbroken by the passing of one of the Blue Jays greatest pitchers Duane Ward,” Black wrote. “Back in the Jays Glory Days he was an absolute beast and off the mound one of the sweetest dudes you could meet.”
Black also highlighted Ward’s dedication to developing young athletes in the years following his retirement.
“Great closer. Great man. Rest easy Wardo my friend,” he added.
The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum also paid tribute to Ward, recognizing his accomplishments during Toronto’s championship years.
“The Hall of Fame remembers two-time World Series champion Duane Ward, who passed away this weekend at the age of 62,” the organization wrote.
Ward won three games and recorded two saves across his World Series appearances, including earning the win in Game 6 of the 1993 World Series shortly before Carter hit his historic walk-off home run.
The Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, which inducted Ward as part of its 2020 class, said it was “heartbroken” by his sudden death.
The organization remembered Ward’s powerful bullpen partnership with Tom Henke and his record-setting season as Toronto’s closer. It also recognized him as a “loyal ambassador” for the Blue Jays who participated in charitable initiatives and helped lead baseball clinics across Canada.
“We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and teammates,” the organization wrote.
Baseball Canada similarly honoured the influence Ward had on young players across the country.
“Duane’s impact on Canadian baseball extended well beyond his playing career,” the organization wrote.
Through his work with the Blue Jays Baseball Academy, Ward gave his time to baseball camps in communities nationwide, helping young athletes develop their skills and grow their love of the game.
“He will be deeply missed,” Baseball Canada said.
The Blue Jays described Ward as a cherished member of the organization whose contributions to the team and baseball in Canada will not be forgotten.
“Duane will be deeply missed by our fans, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family,” the statement said.
