Former Boston Red Sox pitching legend Luis Tiant has passed away at the age of 83, according to the team. Tiant, affectionately known as ”El Tiante,” had a long and storied career with the Red Sox organization, serving as a player, coach, broadcaster, and special assignment instructor for 31 years. Sources have revealed that Tiant had been dealing with health issues over the past year.
Red Sox Principal Owner John Henry spoke highly of Tiant’s unforgettable presence and zest for life. He described him as one-of-a-kind and expressed how much he will be missed by everyone in the organization. Red Sox Chairman Tom Werner praised Tiant’s resilience, passion, and sense of belonging to something greater than himself during his time on the pitching staff.
Red Sox President & CEO Sam Kennedy emphasized Tiant’s ability to make others feel special and connected through his conversations. He acknowledged that while Tiant’s legacy on the mound is undeniable, it is his role as a friend and mentor that truly impacted generations of fans and players.
Former Red Sox third baseman Will Middlebrooks shared fond memories of Tiant, describing him as one of his favorite people in the game. Middlebrooks recalled how Tiant would always come by his locker to give him a hug and kiss on top of his head.
Other former players also paid tribute to Tiant on social media platforms. Fred Lynn expressed sadness over losing his friend and teammate who was not only a talented pitcher but also someone who loved their family and baseball.
Tiant originally hails from Cuba but joined the Boston Red Sox after spending six years with the Cleveland Indians. He later played for other teams such as New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Pirates, and California Angels before retiring in 1982. Throughout his career, he achieved more than 2,400 strikeouts along with being named an MLB All-Star three times while leading in American League ERA twice.
Although he fell short of being elected into MLB Hall of Fame despite multiple considerations throughout the years since retiring from professional baseball in 1982,Titant was honored by being inducted into Red Sox Hall of Fame in 1997.
Titant is survived by his wife Maria along with their four children: Luis Jr., Isabel Daniel,and John Papile