Duane Ward, Ex-Blue Jays Pitcher and World Series Winner, Dies at 62
Former Toronto Blue Jays relief pitcher Duane Ward, a two-time World Series champion and one of the franchise’s greatest bullpen pitchers, has died at the age of 62.
The Blue Jays announced Sunday that Ward died of natural causes in Toronto. He had travelled to the city on Friday to attend celebrations marking the team’s 1992 and 1993 World Series championship teams but was unable to attend Saturday’s ceremony at Rogers Centre.
In a statement, the organization described Ward as one of the most accomplished and beloved relievers in franchise history and extended condolences to his family.
Remarkable Career with the Blue Jays
Ward played for the Blue Jays from 1986 to 1995, appearing in 452 games and recording 121 career saves, ranking among the franchise’s all-time leaders.
His 45 saves during the 1993 season remain the Blue Jays’ single-season franchise record.
After forming one of baseball’s top bullpen duos with Tom Henke, Ward became Toronto’s closer following Henke’s departure after the 1992 championship season.
Key Role in Championship Success
Ward was a crucial member of Toronto’s back-to-back World Series-winning teams in 1992 and 1993.
He earned the victory in Game 6 of the 1993 World Series, the game remembered for Joe Carter’s iconic walk-off home run against the Philadelphia Phillies.
The Blue Jays said Ward would always be remembered for helping create some of the greatest moments in franchise history.
Honoured by Team and Baseball Community
Before Sunday’s game against the Chicago White Sox, the Blue Jays paid tribute to Ward with a video presentation and a moment of silence.
Longtime Blue Jays executive Paul Beeston praised Ward’s impact on both the organization and baseball in Canada, noting his commitment to coaching and youth clinics across the country.
Ward was inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame in 2020.
Manager John Schneider remembered him as someone who brought energy and humour to every room, calling him one of the greatest Blue Jays.
Former teammate Todd Stottlemyre also paid tribute, saying Ward’s contributions were essential to the club’s consecutive championships and encouraged people to cherish their loved ones.
MLB Career
Ward began his Major League Baseball career with the Atlanta Braves, who selected him in the first round of the 1982 MLB Draft. Toronto acquired him in July 1986 in a trade for pitcher Doyle Alexander.
Arm injuries sidelined him for the entire 1994 season, and he retired after appearing in only four games in 1995.
He finished his MLB career with a 3.28 ERA and a 32-37 record.
Duane Ward leaves behind a lasting legacy as one of the finest relief pitchers in Toronto Blue Jays history.
His performances during the club’s championship years, franchise records, and contributions to Canadian baseball have secured his place among the organization’s all-time greats.
His passing marks the loss of a respected player whose impact on the game will not be forgotten.
