At the age of 69, Bill Buckner, a former MLB All-Star who played for five teams in his 22-year career for five teams, has passed away on Monday. Jody’s wife broke the news to Jeremy Schaap, who posted the statement below.
“Bill Buckner passed away early the morning of May 27th surrounded by his family. Bill fought with courage and grit as he did all things in life. Our hearts are broken but we are at peace knowing he is in the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
Bill was 69.” — Jeremy Schaap (@JeremySchaap)
From 1984 to 1987 Buckner played for the Red Sox, then again in 1990. Buckner couldn’t pull into a soft ground ball to first base with the Red Sox leading the Mets and closing in on an elusive World Series victory. The Mets tied the game, winning to knot the series eventually.
In his career, the batting champion of 1980 had 2,715 hits. He was an All-Star with the Cubs in 1980 and played for the Dodgers, Cubs, Red Sox, Angels and Royals from 1969-1990.
After trying a second stint with the Red Sox, Buckner retired in 1990. Because of the taunts and criticism he and his family were forced to move from Massachusetts to Idaho.
Buckner is survived by his wife Judy, two daughters, Brittany and Christen, and son, Bobby.
