Some saddening news has struck the baseball world regarding one of the greatest players in the history of the Los Angeles Dodgers organization.
The Dodgers informed fans on social media that former MVP shortstop Maury Wills has unfortunately passed away on Monday at the age of 89.
“The Los Angeles Dodgers are saddened by the passing of Dodger legend Maury Wills. Our thoughts are with Wills’ family, teammates and friends.”
Wills played for the Dodgers from 1959-1966, and then returned to the organization for a second time from 1969-1972 after brief stints with the Montreal Expos and Pittsburgh Pirates.
In those years with the Dodgers he was a staple in the infield, making seven All-Star appearances along with a National League MVP award in his famous 1962 season.
That special season for Wills resulted in the star shortstop batting .299/347/.373 with a ridiculous 104 stolen bases, which was the most in baseball’s modern era at the time.
Many took the chance to recognize the greatness of Wills’ career, as well as pay their respects to his family following this sad news on Tuesday.
RIP to Maury Wills. One of the coolest mornings I spent in spring training was watching him work with Juan Pierre and others on bunting and baserunning in this cool little area just off Vero Beach clubhouse. It was like a putting green for fast, aggressive ballplayers.
— Phil Rogers (@philgrogers) September 20, 2022
Wills also tried his hand as an MLB analyst for NBC after his playing career ended for five years, and would later serve as a manager for the Seattle Mariners in 1980 and 1981. The Dodgers legend has played a huge role in every aspect of the sport throughout his life, and he will surely be missed but not forgotten by baseball fans across the country.
About Reice Shipley
Reice Shipley is a staff writer for Comeback Media that graduated from Ithaca College with a degree in Sports Media. He previously worked at Barrett Sports Media and is a fan of all things Syracuse sports.