Bob Boone, the former Cincinnati Reds manager and longtime big-league catcher, has died at 78, according to reports.
Boone spent 2 1/2 seasons managing the Reds from 2001 to 2003, finishing with 190 wins and 238 losses. Before that, he had already been in the dugout with the Kansas City Royals from 1995 to 1997.
The Boone name runs deep through baseball, and his family ties were part of the story as well. He was the father of Bret and Aaron, both former major-league players.
Former Reds general manager Jim Bowden posted a tribute on X, writing: "Prayers, condolences and thoughts to the Boone family on the passing of Bob," Bowden wrote on X. "He was a leader as a player, coach and manager...a great son husband father grandfather...gold glove catcher...loved baseball and family at an elite level...high class and character special human being...blessed to have spent many years with him🙏🏻⚾️❤️"
Former Mets catcher Mike Piazza also shared his thoughts on X: "My deep prayers and condolences to the family of Bob Boone, Bret, Aaron and the rest," Piazza wrote. "I grew up watching Bob with the great teams of the 70’s..
His play and mastery of catching inspired me to want to play the position.. God Bless.."
Boone’s playing career was a long one and a decorated one. He was selected in the sixth round of the 1969 MLB Draft out of Stanford University, then debuted for Philadelphia on September 10, 1972, going 0-for-2 against the Chicago Cubs.
He played for the Phillies from 1972 to 1981, then finished his career with seven seasons for the California Angels and two seasons with the Royals. Across 19 seasons, Boone hit .254/.315/.346 with 105 home runs.
He was a four-time All-Star in 1976, 1978, 1979 and 1982, and he won six Gold Gloves in 1978, 1979, 1982, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989.
Boone retired in 1990 at 42. In his final game with the Royals, he went 2-for-3 with an RBI.
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