The baseball community is mourning the loss of longtime executive Walt Jocketty, who passed away at the age of 74 after a 45-year career in the sport. Major League Baseball’s official X (formerly Twitter) account announced his passing on Saturday afternoon. Jocketty, who served as the St. Louis Cardinals’ general manager from 1994 to 2007, was instrumental in acquiring key franchise figures such as Mark McGwire, Albert Pujols, and Adam Wainwright. A three-time Executive of the Year, Jocketty later took on the same GM role with the Cincinnati Reds from 2008 to 2015 and stayed on as an advisor until the end of 2024.
Prior to Saturday’s game against the Milwaukee Brewers, the Cardinals honored Jocketty with a moment of silence. “Walt was our first general manager after purchasing the team, and he guided our baseball operations through some of the most successful and memorable periods in franchise history,” said Cardinals owner Bill DeWitt, as reported by MLB.com. “He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his distinguished career.”
Jocketty began his baseball career with the Oakland Athletics in 1980, helping to build a strong farm system and earning a World Series championship ring in 1989. After moving to St. Louis, he brought with him notable A’s figures like McGwire and manager Tony La Russa. Under Jocketty’s leadership, the Cardinals claimed six division titles, two National League pennants, and won the 2006 World Series — the franchise’s first in nearly a quarter-century.
After leaving St. Louis, Jocketty revitalized the Reds, building a roster centered around 2010 NL MVP Joey Votto and ace pitcher Johnny Cueto. Between 2010 and 2013, the Reds averaged 89 wins per season and secured two division crowns. Reflecting on Jocketty’s leadership, Reds bench coach Freddie Benavides said, “He trusted his staff, hired great people, and let them do their jobs. He was a great baseball man who always fought for and supported his team.”
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