The baseball world is mourning the loss of Duane Ward, the legendary Toronto Blue Jays reliever and two-time World Series champion, who died at the age of 62. The Toronto Blue Jays announced that Ward passed away from natural causes while in Toronto, where he had traveled to participate in celebrations honoring the club’s back-to-back World Series championship teams. (MLB.com)

Ward arrived in Toronto on Friday ahead of the unveiling of the Blue Jays’ new statue commemorating the 1992 and 1993 championship teams. Although he had planned to be part of the festivities, he was absent from Saturday’s ceremony. The club confirmed the following day that he had died of natural causes. No further details regarding the specific medical cause have been released. (MLB.com)

Widely regarded as one of the greatest relief pitchers in franchise history, Ward played for the Blue Jays from 1986 to 1995. He was a dominant setup man before taking over as the team’s closer in 1993, when he earned his lone All-Star selection and led the American League with 45 saves, a Blue Jays single-season franchise record that still stands. He finished his Toronto career with 121 saves, helping the club capture consecutive World Series titles in 1992 and 1993. (MLB.com)

Ward also played a pivotal role in one of baseball’s most iconic moments. He earned the victory in Game 6 of the 1993 World Series after pitching a scoreless top of the ninth inning, setting the stage for Joe Carter’s unforgettable walk-off home run that secured Toronto’s second straight championship. His contributions to Canadian baseball were recognized with his induction into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame in 2020. (MLB.com)

Following the announcement of his passing, tributes poured in from former teammates, coaches, fans, and members of the baseball community. The Blue Jays described Ward as “one of the most accomplished and beloved relievers in franchise history” and expressed their gratitude for his immense contributions to the organization and to baseball in Canada. Before Sunday’s game, the team honored him with a moment of silence and a video tribute at Rogers Centre. (Field Level Media)

Duane Ward’s legacy endures through his remarkable achievements on the mound, his championship pedigree, and the unforgettable role he played in one of the greatest eras in Toronto Blue Jays history. His impact on the game and on generations of baseball fans will long be remembered.