Bill Lajoie Passes Away at Age 76

[a700hitter]

Bill Lajoie passes away at 76

 

Longtime baseball executive Bill Lajoie, who played a prominent role during a tumultuous period for the Red Sox, passed away today at the age of 76 according to several published reports.

 

Lajoie was best known for helping build the powerhouse 1984 Detroit Tigers, serving that organization as its scouting director, assistant general manager and as general manager from 1984-90.

 

He joined the Red Sox as a consultant to general manager Theo Epstein in 2002. When Epstein unexpectedly resigned on Oct. 31, 2005, Lajoie became part of a committee that ran baseball operations until Epstein returned on Jan. 24, 2006.

 

It was during that time the Red Sox traded shortstop Hanley Ramirez and three prospects to the Florida Marlins for Josh Beckett, Mike Lowell and Guillermo Mota. Beckett and Lowell helped lead the Red Sox to the 2007 World Series championship.

 

Lajoie resigned upon Epstein’s return and joined the Dodgers as a consultant. He later worked for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

 

In all, Lajoie spent more than 50 years in the game as a minor-league outfielder, manager and executive. He also worked for the Reds, Braves and Brewers during his career.

[ohiosplendidsplinter]

He did a fantastic job with the Tigers.

 

A great baseball man.