A’s great Bob Welch passes at 57

Bob Welch played for the Los Angeles Dodgers and Oakland Athletics during his 17-season career, which ended in 1994.

On Tuesday morning, his career of life ended abruptly, passing away due to undisclosed causes. He was a key part of Oakland’s 1989 championship season, where he won 17 games.

During Welch’s best season, in 1990, he recorded 27 wins and earned the Cy Young award. On Welch’s passing, A’s general manager Billy Beane said in a statement:

“This is a sad day for the entire A’s organization. Those of us who knew Bob as a teammate and a friend will miss him greatly. My condolences go out to his family.”

Welch’s ties to the team didn’t end with his retirement. He was a special instructor during spring training, and A’s president Michael Crowley termed him “a legendary pitcher.” Crowley added:

“He will always be a significant part of our franchise’s history, and we mourn his loss. We send our greatest sympathies to his family and friends.”

Welch served as the pitching coach for the Arizona Diamondbacks when they won the 2001 World Series. His son Riley was selected by the A’s in the 34th round of the 2008 MLB First-Year Players Draft.

He is survived by his sons Dylan (25) and Riley (23), daughter Kelly (18) and former wife Mary Ellen.

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