Bob Boone, a former major league catcher and World Series champion, has died at age 78. His son, former All-Star Bret Boone, announced the death on social media. The announcement did not give a cause of death, and the family has not released further details.
Boone spent 19 seasons in the majors, most of them behind the plate. He played 10 seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies, seven with the California Angels and his final two with the Kansas City Royals. He was selected to four All-Star teams and won seven Gold Glove Awards for his defense, a mark that reflected his reputation as one of the most reliable catchers of his era. Over his career he hit.254 with 105 home runs, 826 runs batted in and 38 stolen bases. His name is displayed on the Phillies' Wall of Fame, the club's honor for players who shaped its history.
Boone's place in baseball history reaches well beyond his own playing career. His father, Ray Boone, played 13 seasons from 1948 to 1960 and won a World Series with the Cleveland Indians. Bob became the first link in what is recognized as Major League Baseball's first three-generation baseball family. His sons Bret and Aaron both became major league All-Stars, and son Matt played in the minor leagues. Aaron Boone now manages the New York Yankees, carrying the family name into the dugout of one of the sport's most prominent franchises.
Off the field, Boone was a leading voice for players. During the 1970s and 1980s he emerged as an early leader in the Major League Baseball Players Association, speaking on behalf of his teammates during an era of heightened labor tension in the game. He later moved into management, leading the Royals from 1995 to 1997 and the Cincinnati Reds from 2001 to 2003. His career managerial record stands at 371 wins and 444 losses. While he was with the Reds, he managed his son Aaron, a rare arrangement that placed the two generations of the family on the same bench.
Boone is survived by his wife, Sue, and three sons. The Phillies, Royals and Yankees, along with the MLB Players Association, issued statements honoring him, recognizing his contributions as a player, manager and advocate across several organizations.