Larry Lucchino, the former president of the Boston Red Sox who helped break the “Bambino Curse,” has died, the team announced Tuesday. He was 78 years old.
The Red Sox posted about Lucchino’s death on X.
“The Red Sox and the sports world have lost a giant,” the team said in a statement. “Larry is a visionary whose competitive spirit and strong will have taken sports franchises, especially our sports franchises, to new heights.
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Larry Lucchino is presented with the Red Sox Jimmy Fund Award before the game against the Houston Astros at Fenway Park in Boston on August 29, 2023. (Madi Malhotra/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images)
“He broke the curse, saved the baseball field, and was a regional champion. Thank you, Larry.”
Lucchino was a Washington, D.C., lawyer who worked for the Washington Redskins and the Baltimore Orioles, as his firm, Williams & Connolly, owned ownership of both teams. He served on the Redskins’ board of directors from 1979 to 1985 and was president of the Baltimore Orioles from 1988 to 1993.
After his time with the Orioles, Lucchino served as president and CEO of the San Diego Padres from 1995 to 2001. The Padres made it to the World Series when Lucchino was the team’s executive.
Lucchino’s biggest claim to fame was revamping the Red Sox organization from the American League’s beloved No. 2, who was always the New York Yankees’ bridesmaid, never the bride., It became a curse-breaking giant, winning titles in 2004, 2007, and 2013.
Prior to that, the Red Sox had not won the World Series since 1918.
Former Red Sox president Larry Lucchino, current president Sam Kennedy, and former player David Ortiz leave the field after a pregame ceremony at Fenway Park in Boston on August 29, 2023. (Brian Fluharty/Getty Images)
Astros’ Ronel Blanco throws eighth no-hitter of his career against the Blue Jays
“Larry Lucchino was one of the most effective executives in the history of our industry,” said MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred. “He was deeply motivated, understood baseball’s place in our community, and had a keen eye for executive talent. Larry’s vision for Camden Yards was to advance a fan-friendly ballpark throughout the game. He played an important role in making this happen.”
“He went on to oversee the construction of Petco Park, which remains a jewel in the San Diego community. Larry then teamed with John Henry and Tom Werner to create the most successful era in Red Sox history. “A return to the field and a renewed commitment to Fenway Park. On behalf of Major League Baseball, I would like to express my condolences to Larry’s family and the Red Sox.” My condolences go out to his colleagues and his many friends throughout the national pastime.”
Red Sox team owner John Henry recalled the lasting legacy Lucchino left on the organization.
Larry Lucchino of the Red Sox watches batting practice before a game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Fenway Park in Boston on June 12, 2015. (Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
“Larry’s career unfolded like a winning script, marked by transformative moments that reimagined ballpark design, enhanced the fan experience, and created the ideal conditions for championships,” Henry said. “Wherever he went, especially in Boston.” “But perhaps his most lasting legacy lies in the great people he helped assemble into the Red Sox, all of whom are a testament to his training, wisdom, and guidance. Many of them remain with the organization today. continues to shape and continue to do the same thing.” Larry’s character traits include vigor, vitality, and the words he cherishes.
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“Larry was a formidable opponent in any arena, fought hard, but always had the utmost respect for his opponents and found true joy in sparring with people. We were lucky to have him in our corner. “He was truly irreplaceable and will be missed by all of us as Red Sox.”
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