Blue Jays legend Duane Ward dead at 62

17 hours ago 16

2-time World Series champion died of natural causes, team says

Published Jul 19, 2026 • 1 minute read

Legendary Blue Jays relief pitcher and two-time World Series champion Duane Ward has died at age 62, the team announced on Sunday morning.

He died of natural causes, the team said.

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“It is with profound sadness that the Toronto Blue Jays mourn the passing of pitcher Duane Ward, one of the most accomplished and beloved relievers in franchise history,” the Blue Jays said in a statement.

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“Duane was a cornerstone of Blue Jays baseball, appearing in 452 games from 1986 to 1995 and helping define an era of excellence,” the team added. “A dominant force on the mound, Duane ranks among the franchise leaders in saves with 121 and remains one of the most reliable late-inning relievers the organization has ever known. Whether setting the stage in the eighth inning or closing out wins, he will be remembered for the role he played in some of the greatest moments in Blue Jays history.”

Ward, a native of New Mexico, won World Series titles with the Blue Jays in 1992 and 1993. He was named an American Leaguer all-star in 1993 and led the league with 45 saves.

In 2020, he was inducted into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame.

The team said Ward was in Toronto on Friday ahead of the franchise’s 1992-93 celebration and unveiling of the Joe Carter statue but was absent from Saturday’s pre-game ceremony.

“Duane will be deeply missed by our fans, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family,” the Blue Jays said. “Duane will always be a cherished part of the Blue Jays family, and we will be forever grateful for his contributions to our organization and to baseball in Canada.”

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