Former World Series-winning Boston Red Sox executive Larry Lucchino died on Tuesday morning, his family confirmed. He was 78 years old.
No cause of death has been given at this time.
Lucchino helped build championship teams during his tenure from 2002 to 2015, with the World Series title in 2004 being the first for the organization in 86 years. The team also won in 2007 and 2013.
He was a three-time cancer survivor.
“Larry’s career unfolded like a playbook of triumphs, marked by transformative moments that reshaped ballpark design, enhanced the fan experience, and engineered the ideal conditions for championships wherever his path led him, and especially in Boston,” Red Sox owner John Henry said Tuesday.
“Yet, perhaps his most enduring legacy lies in the remarkable people he helped assemble at the Red Sox, all of whom are a testament to his training, wisdom, and mentorship.”
According to the Red Sox, Lucchino has the unique distinction of earning five World Series rings (in 1983 with the Orioles, three as Red Sox president, and another in 2018 when he was the owner of the organization’s Class AAA franchise), a Super Bowl ring (1983 with Washington) and a Final Four watch (1965 with Princeton).
“For me and for so many of my best friends in baseball, Larry gave us our start, believing in us and setting an enduring example with his work ethic, vision, competitiveness, and fearlessness,” said Epstein, who is now a partner with Fenway Sports Group.
“He made a profound impact on many in baseball — and on the game itself — and will be missed.”
