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Former Blue Jays Closer Duane Ward Dies at 62

7/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Toronto Blue Jays announced reliever Duane Ward died at 62 of natural causes in Toronto.
Ward missed Saturday’s Rogers Centre ceremony honoring the 1992 and 1993 World Series titles.
He appeared in 452 games (1986-1995) and ranks second in franchise saves with 121.
Ward led the AL with 45 saves in 1993, was an All-Star, earned Game 6 World Series win and entered Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame in 2020.

History

Historical Context

In 1992 the Toronto Blue Jays became the first team based outside the United States to win a World Series, defeating the Atlanta Braves in six games at the SkyDome, the first championship played in a retractable-roof stadium. Pitcher Duane Ward saved 45 games that season, finishing with 121 franchise saves. The Rogers Centre ceremony commemorates that landmark Canadian triumph.

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Story summary

The Toronto Blue Jays announced reliever Duane Ward died at 62 of natural causes in Toronto.
Ward missed Saturday’s Rogers Centre ceremony honoring the 1992 and 1993 World Series titles.
He appeared in 452 games (1986-1995) and ranks second in franchise saves with 121.
Ward led the AL with 45 saves in 1993, was an All-Star, earned Game 6 World Series win and entered Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame in 2020.

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