Joe Morgan, the popular Boston Red Sox manager who guided his hometown team to a pair of AL East titles, has died. He was 95. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
In a statement Sunday, the Red Sox announced that Morgan died Saturday night. The club was informed by his daughter, Catherine, team spokesperson Abby Murphy said. No further information was provided.
"Joe Morgan holds a special place in Red Sox history," Principal Owner John Henry said in the statement. "When he took over in 1988, he changed the course of a season and created one of the most memorable chapters in the history of this club. The two division titles that followed only strengthened a bond with Red Sox fans that endured for the rest of his life. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and all who loved him."
Morgan played 88 major league games as an infielder with five teams from 1959-64 and then spent 18 years in the Red Sox organization as a manager, coach and scout from 1974-91.
Along the way, he managed Boston stars such as Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens and Rich Gedman in both the minors and majors. Morgan was inducted into the team's Hall of Fame in 2006.
"He was a big part of my life and will be missed," said Boggs, a Hall of Fame third baseman. "I don't think he got enough credit for how baseball-smart he was. He played baseball hunches instead of statistics. He will always be one of my favorites."
Morgan's death has caused great sorrow in the baseball world. His place in Red Sox history was special. When he took over the team in 1988, he drastically changed the club's fortunes mid-season and won the hearts of fans. Under his leadership, the team won two division titles.
Morgan's baseball career began as a player. He played for five different teams from 1959 to 1964. But his real success came as a coach. His long years in the Red Sox organization made him a club legend.
He was not just a coach, but also made a huge contribution to the development of young players. Many stars grew under his mentorship. Players like Boggs, Clemens and Gedman reached high levels under his guidance.
Following Morgan's death, the Red Sox club made an official statement. The club's management expressed condolences to his family. Fans are also remembering him on social media, expressing warm words.
Joe Morgan's name will forever remain in Red Sox history. His contribution to the team was enormous. He remained in the hearts of fans not only as a manager, but also as a person.
Morgan's death is a great loss for the baseball world. His achievements and merits will be remembered for a long time. The Red Sox team will honor his memory and always preserve his spirit.