Hector Gomez reports that longtime Blue Jays shortstop Tony Fernandez has passed away. Fernandez had been hospitalized with kidney disease, and was placed in a medically induced coma after developing pneumonia. He also suffered a stroke.
A five-time All-Star and winner of four Gold Gloves, Fernandez played in parts of 17 big league seasons from 1983 to 2001. He is the Blue Jays’ all-time leader in games played, hits, singles, triples and position player WAR. The Jays released the following statement in recognition of his passing.
We will miss you, Tony 💙 pic.twitter.com/3FfCgXaM7y
— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) February 16, 2020
In addition to his time with Toronto, Fernandez also played for the Padres, Mets, Reds, Yankees, Indians and Brewers. He was a career .288 hitter.
Fernandez was 57.