– Former Blue Jays manager Jimy Williams dies at age 80
– Red Sox and Astros manager Jimy Williams passes away at 80.
Jimy Williams, Former Red Sox Manager, Passes Away at 80
BOSTON (AP) — Jimy Williams, a highly respected figure in the world of baseball, has passed away at the age of 80. Williams, who was the American League Manager of the Year in 1999, had a successful career that spanned over a dozen seasons with the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Houston Astros.
Williams, a beloved figure among Red Sox fans, died on Friday at AdventHealth North Pinellas Hospital in Tarpon Springs, Florida, after a brief illness. He had been residing in Palm Harbor, which is located nearby.
In 1999, Williams was recognized for his exceptional leadership when he was voted the AL Manager of the Year after guiding the Red Sox to their second consecutive playoff appearance. Known for his calm demeanor, Williams once joked that managing a clubhouse was easier than managing his own household, where he had a wife and four children.
A Passion for Baseball From the Start
Born James Francis Williams in Santa Maria, California, on October 4, 1943, Williams had a deep-rooted passion for baseball from a young age. He attended Arroyo Grande High School and graduated in 1961. During his time in high school, Williams played a prank by intentionally misspelling his name as “Jimy,” a name that stuck with him throughout his life.
Williams continued his baseball journey at Fresno State, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in agri-business in 1964. During that same year, he played alongside future legends Tom Seaver and Graig Nettles for the Alaska Goldpanners during the summer. Williams was eventually signed by the Boston Red Sox and made his major league debut on April 26, 1966.
A Successful Career and Transition to Coaching
Although Williams’ playing career was cut short by a shoulder injury, he found success as a coach and manager. After managing in the minor leagues, Williams became the third base coach for the Toronto Blue Jays in 1980. In 1986, he took over as the team’s manager, leading them to impressive seasons in 1987 and 1988.
Williams returned to the Atlanta Braves as the third base coach from 1991 to 1996, where he played a significant role in their memorable victory in the 1992 NL Championship Series. Following the 1996 season, Williams was appointed as the manager of the Boston Red Sox.
A Legacy Remembered
During his tenure with the Red Sox, Williams led the team to consecutive 90-win seasons and a remarkable comeback victory in the 1999 Division Series. Despite his success, Williams was let go in August 2001 with a record of 65-53. He then joined the Houston Astros as their manager, experiencing both triumph and challenges before being fired in 2004.
Williams’ managerial record stands at an impressive 910-790. Beyond his managerial career, he remained involved in baseball, serving as a roving instructor for the Tampa Bay Rays and as bench coach for the Philadelphia Phillies, where he won a World Series ring in 2008.
Williams leaves behind a lasting legacy in the baseball world. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Peggy, his two sons, Shawn and Brady, and his two daughters, Monica Farr and Jenna Williams. His impact on the game and the lives he touched will not be forgotten.
Rest in peace, Jimy Williams.
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AP MLB: https://apnews.com/MLB
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1. Former Blue Jays, Red Sox and Astros manager Jimy Williams passes away at age
2. Former Blue Jays, Red Sox and Astros manager Jimy Williams dies at 80 years old.
