Leyland 'shocked' by news of ump Bell's passing

By Jason Beck and T.R. Sullivan

October 15, 2013

DETROIT -- Tigers manager Jim Leyland couldn't remember having a run-in with Wally Bell. He really didn't remember any specific game Bell umpired. But he remembered the personality.

That's why news of Bell's passing Monday at age 48 hit Leyland hard.

"He did a lot of [my games], I'm sure, over the years, but I always had a great relationship with him," Leyland said. "I went out and talked to him a few times. We never had any history whatsoever, I mean nothing serious. I really liked him. He always gave a good effort and was a very good umpire, but he was a great guy.

"I just really liked Wally. He was from around Youngstown [Ohio]. Well, I'm not far from there in Pittsburgh. He was just a great guy. That just breaks your heart. I was just shocked."

Jason Beck is a reporter for MLB.com. Read Beck's Blog and follow him on Twitter @beckjason. T.R. Sullivan is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Postcards from Elysian Fields, and follow him on Twitter @Sullivan_Ranger.