Four-time MLB All-Star catcher Bob Boone, who was a crucial part of two Angels division title runs in the 1980s, has died at 78, the team and family announced Tuesday.
Boone was a stalwart behind the plate from 1982 to 1988 after joining the Angels from Philadelphia. He teamed with other big-name free agent signings, including Reggie Jackson, Fred Lynn and Rod Carew, on a contending squad that fell just short of its World Series aspirations.
“With a heavy heart I’m here to confirm the passing of my dad (Bob Boone) today, Aug. 9th,” Boone’s son Bret announced on social media. “He was a man of great integrity. He was a great dad, husband, and patriarch. It was a privilege to call him my father. Baseball lost and great one today.
“And love you dad. RIP.”
The Angels shared a statement Tuesday morning.
“We join the baseball community in mourning the passing of Bob Boone,” the team said. “Our franchise leader in games caught, Boone’s leadership, exceptional defense and knowledge of the game made him an invaluable presence behind the plate and helped the Angels win two division titles.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire Boone family.”
No cause of death was provided.
Boone was a three-time All-Star with the Phillies in 1976, 1978 and 1979. He earned a 1983 All-Star selection with the Angels.
“Bob was an incredible player, teammate and family man. He embodied everything we believe exemplary athletes should represent, both on and off the field,” the Phillies said in a statement. “We were proud to have him as part of the Phillies family during one of the most historic runs in team history. His impact on our organization, his teammates, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him will never be forgotten.”
The Angels lost the 1982 American League Championship Series against Milwaukee, losing the final three games of the best-of-five series after winning the first two. In 1986 the Angels lost another heartbreaker in the ALCS, blowing a three-games-to-one lead in a best-of-seven series to the Boston Red Sox.
Boone signed a free agent contract with the Kansas City Royals in 1989. He closed out his MLB playing career in Kansas City in 1990.
Boone was part of the Phillies’ first World Series championship team in 1980. He won seven Gold Gloves.
He managed the Royals from 1995-97, and the Cincinnati Reds from 2001-03.
Boone had two sons who played in the major leagues, continuing the family tradition: Aaron and Brett. Aaron Boone is currently the manager of the New York Yankees.
“His legacy is profound, and we can see the values he embodied carried forward by his son, Aaron, in his leadership of the Yankees,” the Yankees wrote in a statement.