Two-time World Series winner Tim Wakefield dies aged 57

Tim Wakefield, a two-time winner of the World Series with the Boston Red Sox has died aged 57.

Following his playing career, Wakefield continued to represent the Red Sox as a broadcaster for New England Sports Network.

Wakefield had been battling brain cancer, according to former teammate Curt Schilling.

Wakefield had not announced his illness to the public, with the Red Sox acknowledging it but asking for privacy as he battled it.

Schilling announced Wakefield’s diagnosis in a podcast despite not having permission from Wakefield or his family.

The Red Sox were forced to release a statement confirming this news, saying, “Unfortunately, this information has been shared publicly without their permission. Their health is a deeply personal matter they intended to keep private as they navigate treatment and work to tackle this disease”

The Boston Red Sox X account had released a statement reading, “Our hearts are broken with the loss of Tim Wakefield.”

The statement continues to pay tribute to Wakefield, “Wake embodied true goodness; a devoted husband, father, and teammate, beloved broadcaster, and the ultimate community leader. He gave so much to the game and all of Red Sox Nation.”

Wakefield will always be remembered in Boston as part of the legendary 2004 team that broke the “Curse of the Bambino”, winning the Sox their first World Series in 86 years.

Wakefield was known for his knuckleball pitching, a style less stressful on the body than most meaning he could pitch more frequently, garnering a reputation as a workhorse for the Sox.

Wakefield was a key member of the 2004 World Series team, pitching game one against the Cardinals, which turned out to be a tough 11-9 win for the Red Sox. Boston would go on to win the series 4-0.

Not only did Wakefield win two World Series, he also finished his career third in wins as a Red Sox player, second in strikeouts, second in game appearances, first in games started as a pitcher, and first in innings pitched.

Former teammate Jason Varitek told reporters, “I don’t know if I have to tell you anything. I think I’m showing it,” as he battled through tears.

Current Red Sox manager and ex-teammate of Wakefield told reporters, “We lost a brother, a teammate, a family member. One of the best teammates I ever had. ... Of all the guys I played with, nobody wore his jersey with more pride than Tim Wakefield.”

As a sign of respect for Wakefield, Cora told his players not to wear jackets or overshirts in their series finale against Baltimore, so they could represent the Red Sox proudly.

Wakefield is survived by wife, Stacy, and their two children, Trevor and Brianna.