Duane Ward, a two-time World Series champion with the Toronto Blue Jays, has passed away. He was 62.
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The MLB team announced the news on Sunday with a statement on social media and said that he had died of natural causes.
This news surfaced as the members of the championship-winning teams headed to Toronto for the unveiling of a new statue outside of Rogers Centre. Ward was in town, but he did not attend the ceremony.
"It is with profound sadness that the Toronto Blue Jays mourn the passing of pitcher Duane Ward, one of the most accomplished and beloved relievers in franchise history," the team said in a statement.
Forever in our hearts, Wardo 💙 pic.twitter.com/Hacb4LKjLk
— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) July 19, 2026
"Duane was a cornerstone of of Blue Jays baseball, appearing in 452 games from 1986 to 1995 and helping define an area of excellence. A dominant force on the mound, Duane ranks among the franchise leaders in saves with 121 and remains one of the most reliable late-inning relievers the organization has ever known.
"Whether setting the stage in the eighth inning or closing out wins, he will be remembered for the role he played in some of the greatest moments in Blue Jays history."
A draft pick of the Atlanta Braves, Ward made his MLB debut in 1986 with the Georgia team. He played in 10 games for the Braves before heading to the Blue Jays midway through the season.
Ward remained with Toronto through the rest of his career. He led the league with 81 games played in 1991, and he earned All-Star honors in 1993. He struck out 679 batters, including a career-high 132 in 1991. He led the league with 45 saves during the 1993 season.
The veteran reliever appeared in 19 total postseason games during his career. He went 3-0 during the World Series, which included the Game 6 win over the Phillies in 1993. This performance helped the Blue Jays capture their second consecutive World Series title.
