MINNEAPOLIS -- The entire Minnesota Twins organization is saddened by the death of legendary sports personality Sid Hartman, who passed away today at age 100. The Twins issued the following statement regarding the loss of Hartman:
“The Minnesota Twins today mourn the passing of Sid Hartman, while also celebrating his extraordinary life, his immeasurable contributions to our state’s sports scene, and his enduring impact on generations of Minnesotans. Sid was truly a one-of-a-kind personality, and his constant presence at the ballpark – which spanned the press boxes and clubhouses of Metropolitan Stadium, the Metrodome and Target Field – will be missed by so many.
“His endless drive to share sports stories across our region was unmatched, as was the deep trust he endeared in athletes, coaches, management and the public alike. This enviable combination, along with a work ethic, competitiveness and resilience that never wavered, allowed Sid to gather and report stories that no one else could have captured. Sid’s commitment to, and passion for, covering Minnesota sports was a true privilege to fans across our state."
Commissioner of Baseball Robert D. Manfred Jr. issued a statement regarding Hartman's passing.
“Sid Hartman was a singular figure of the Minnesota sports scene throughout the entire history of the Twins franchise, and a friend to so many throughout our National Pastime. Appropriately, he was member number one for the Baseball Writers’ Association of America at the time of his passing, as well as the organization’s longest tenured member. We appreciate Sid’s lifetime of goodwill and for always reminding us why we love baseball and all sports.
“On behalf of Major League Baseball, I extend my deepest sympathy to Sid’s family, friends, readers and all Minnesotans.”
The Twins statement continued:
“From his behind-the-scenes work to deliver Major League Baseball to the Twin Cities, to his literally thousands upon thousands of newspaper, television and radio stories that brought to life the exploits of our players and team over our first 60 seasons, few people have done more for our franchise than Sid Hartman. We will be forever grateful for Sid’s contributions to Minnesota Twins baseball.
“Sid will be missed, but he will certainly never be forgotten. Sid Hartman was, is, and always will be Minnesota sports.”
The Twins dedicated the press conference room at Target Field in Hartman's honor in 2014. The room is called the Sid Hartman Press Conference Room and will continue to serve as the primary venue for significant press conferences held at Target Field. In addition, as part of the 2014 Major League Baseball All-Star Game Legacy Giving project, a youth baseball field located at Northeast Athletic Park in North Minneapolis was renovated and renamed Sid Hartman All-Star Field.