Hector Ortiz, a former major league catcher and a longtime coach for the Texas Rangers, passed away on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, after a long and brave fight with cancer. He was 54 years old.
Ortiz was a beloved figure in the baseball world, who spent 18 years of his life with the Rangers organization, serving as a bullpen coach, first base coach, and catching coordinator. He was known for his unwavering commitment, resilience, and inspiration, both on and off the field.
Hector Ortiz’s career and achievements
Ortiz was born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, on October 14, 1969. He attended the University of Mobile in Alabama, where he played college baseball. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 35th round of the 1991 MLB draft.
He made his major league debut with the Dodgers in 1998, and played for them until 1999. He then played for the Kansas City Royals from 2000 to 2002, and for the Colorado Rockies in 2003. He appeared in 87 games in his major league career, batting .272 with two home runs and 21 RBIs.
He joined the Rangers organization in 2006 as a minor league catching instructor. He was promoted to the major league staff in 2015 as a bullpen coach, and then became the first base coach in 2016. He also served as the catching coordinator for the Rangers, overseeing the development of young catchers in the system.
Ortiz was a part of the Rangers’ coaching staff that led the team to two consecutive American League West titles in 2015 and 2016. He was also instrumental in mentoring and improving the skills of catchers such as Robinson Chirinos, Jonathan Lucroy, and Jose Trevino.
Hector Ortiz’s battle with cancer and death
Ortiz was diagnosed with cancer in 2019, and underwent several treatments and surgeries. He continued to work with the Rangers despite his health challenges, and never gave up hope. He was an inspiration to his players, colleagues, and fans, who admired his courage and positivity.
Ortiz passed away peacefully at his home in Arlington, Texas, surrounded by his family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Wanda, and his three children, Hector Jr., Gabriela, and Daniel.
The Rangers organization issued a statement expressing their deep sorrow and gratitude for Ortiz’s contributions and friendship. They also announced that they will honor his memory by wearing a patch with his initials on their uniforms for the 2024 season.
FAQ
- Who was Hector Ortiz?
- Hector Ortiz was a former major league catcher and a longtime coach for the Texas Rangers, who died after a long battle with cancer on February 28, 2024. He was 54 years old.
- What kind of cancer did Hector Ortiz have?
- Hector Ortiz had a rare form of cancer that affected his salivary glands and lymph nodes. He underwent several treatments and surgeries, but the cancer spread to other parts of his body.
- How did Hector Ortiz die?
- Hector Ortiz died peacefully at his home in Arlington, Texas, surrounded by his family and friends. He had been battling cancer since 2019.
- How did Hector Ortiz impact the Texas Rangers?
- Hector Ortiz was a valuable member of the Texas Rangers coaching staff, who served as a bullpen coach, first base coach, and catching coordinator. He helped the team win two consecutive American League West titles in 2015 and 2016. He also mentored and improved the skills of many catchers in the organization. He was known for his unwavering commitment, resilience, and inspiration.