1. Former Blue Jays, Red Sox and Astros manager Jimy Williams death at age 80
2. Jimy Williams, former Blue Jays, Red Sox and Astros manager, passes away at 80.
Jimy Williams, Former Manager of the Boston Red Sox, Dies at Age 80
BOSTON (AP) – Jimy Williams, the former manager of the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Houston Astros, has passed away at the age of 80. Williams, who won the American League Manager of the Year award in 1999, died on Friday after a brief illness at AdventHealth North Pinellas Hospital in Tarpon Springs, Florida.
A beloved figure in the baseball community, Williams led the Red Sox to their second consecutive playoff appearance in 1999, earning him the prestigious Manager of the Year title. Known for his calm demeanor in the clubhouse, Williams often joked that managing his family at home was more challenging than managing a team.
A Life Dedicated to Baseball
Born James Francis Williams on October 4, 1943, in Santa Maria, California, Williams had a lifelong passion for the game. He attended Arroyo Grande High School, where he first spelled his name as “Jimy” as a playful prank. Williams went on to study at Fresno State, earning a bachelor’s degree in agri-business in 1964.
Williams’ professional baseball career began when he signed with the Boston Red Sox. He made his major league debut on April 26, 1966, and although his playing career was cut short by a shoulder injury, Williams left a lasting impact on the game.
Transitioning from player to manager, Williams started his managerial journey with the California Angels in 1974. He later joined the Toronto Blue Jays as Bobby Mattick’s third base coach in 1980. Williams eventually took over as the Blue Jays’ manager in 1986, leading the team to successful seasons in 1987 and 1988.
Success and Challenges
Under Williams’ leadership, the Blue Jays came close to winning the AL East in 1987, finishing just two games behind the Detroit Tigers. However, tensions arose between Williams and star player George Bell, who had reservations about being a designated hitter. Williams was eventually replaced by Cito Gaston in 1989.
Williams returned to the Atlanta Braves as the third base coach from 1991 to 1996, playing a pivotal role in the team’s memorable victory in the 1992 NL Championship Series. In 1996, he was hired as the manager of the Boston Red Sox.
During his tenure with the Red Sox, Williams led the team to consecutive 90-win seasons and a comeback victory in the 1999 Division Series against Cleveland. Despite his successes, Williams was fired in August 2001 with the team at 65-53.
Williams went on to manage the Houston Astros in 2002. After two winning seasons, he was unexpectedly fired in 2004 when fans booed him during the All-Star Game. Throughout his managerial career, Williams amassed a record of 910-790.
A Lasting Legacy
After his managerial career, Williams remained involved in the world of baseball. He served as a roving instructor for the Tampa Bay Rays in 2005 and 2006 and became Charlie Manuel’s bench coach for the Philadelphia Phillies in 2007 and 2008. Williams earned a World Series ring with the Phillies in 2008.
Williams is survived by his wife of 47 years, Peggy, and their children Shawn and Brady. Both sons followed in their father’s footsteps and pursued careers in baseball. Brady is currently the third base coach for the Tampa Bay Rays, while Shawn is a former minor league manager.
Jimy Williams will be remembered not only for his achievements on the field but also for his dedication to the game and the impact he had on those around him. His legacy as a beloved manager and mentor will continue to inspire future generations of baseball enthusiasts.
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1. Former Blue Jays, Red Sox and Astros manager Jimy Williams death at age
2. Jimy Williams, former Blue Jays, Red Sox and Astros manager, passes away at 80.
