REACTION TO JOE MORGAN’S PASSING

“We are beyond saddened by the passing of Joe Morgan. A trailblazer on and off the field, his impact on our sport and community will be felt for generations to come in Oakland. We send our condolences to his loved ones and the baseball family.”

Oakland A’s

“We join the Major League Baseball community in mourning the passing of Hall of Fame second baseman Joe Morgan. Morgan was a member of our #SFGiants family as a player from 1981-1982 and as a broadcaster from 1986-1993.”

San Francisco Giants

“One of the best five-tool players our game has ever known and a symbol of all-around excellence. Joe often reminded baseball fans that the player smallest in stature on the field could be the most impactful. ... Perhaps the finest second baseman who ever lived.” Commissioner Rob Manfred

“Joe wasn’t just the best second baseman in baseball history, he was the best player I ever saw and one of the best people I’ve ever known. He was a dedicated father and husband and a day won’t go by that I won’t think about his wisdom and friendship. He left the world a better, fairer, and more equal place than he found it, and inspired millions along the way.”

Hall of Famer Johnny Bench, a Reds teammate

“Joe was a big part of my family during the time we played together and that remained the same long after our careers ended. He was one of those guys who was just special on so many levels in all that he did. Joe was a great player, a great teammate, and a great person. Our group shared some very special moments and experiences that will remain with us forever.”

Hall of Famer Tony Perez, a Reds and Phillies teammate

“Joe was great in so many ways. He was a great player. He was a great representative of the game. And, from a personal standpoint, he was a great friend.”

Former commissioner Bud Selig

“He meant a lot to us, a lot to me, a lot to baseball, a lot to African-Americans around the country, a lot to players that were considered undersized. He was one of the first examples of speed and power for a guy that they said was too small to play. He was the first modern-day (José) Altuve. He was a heck of a person, heck of a guy, great father, great businessman. He was good at whatever he put his mind to.”

Houston Astros manager Dusty Baker

“Joe was a giant in the game and was adored by the fans in this city. He had a lifelong loyalty and dedication to this organization that extended to our current team and front office staff. As a cornerstone on one of the greatest teams in baseball history, his contributions to this franchise will live forever. Our hearts ache for his Big Red Machine teammates.”

Cincinnati Reds CEO Bob Castellini