Commissioner of Baseball Robert D. Manfred, Jr. issued the following statement today regarding the passing of longtime Boston Red Sox pitcher Tim Wakefield, who was 57:

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Tim Wakefield, one of the most unique pitchers of his generation and a key part of the most successful era in the history of the Boston Red Sox.  Tim’s knuckleball allowed him to excel as a rookie with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1992.  In 1995, he began a 17-year tenure in Boston, where he made a mark that will be remembered forever.  Tim was more than just a versatile and reliable All-Star pitcher, a highly respected teammate, and a two-time World Series Champion.  In 2010, Tim was named the Roberto Clemente Award winner for the dedicated work he and his family did serving the communities of New England.

“On behalf of Major League Baseball, I extend my deepest condolences to Tim’s family, his friends and teammates across the game, and Red Sox fans everywhere.  We will continue to support our partners at Stand Up To Cancer in the memory of Tim and all those who are in the fight against this disease.”