Tributes Pour In After 3 World Series Champions Have Tragically Died

Tributes are pouring in online after three former MLB World Series champions have tragically died this week.

Phil Garner, a former World Series champion with the 1979 Pirates, is dead on Sunday. He had been battling cancer.

"Garner, the 3-time All Star who won a World Series title with the 1979 Pirates, managed the Milwaukee Brewers, Detroit Tigers and Houston Astros, leading the Astros to their first AL pennant in 2005. He was 76 years old," Bob Nightengale shared.

MLB fans are deeply saddened by his loss.

"Very sad news and my condolences to his family and friends," one wrote.

"So sad, very nice man," one fan added.

"RIP to a legend," one shared.

Two other MLB World Series champs have died this week

Tom Nieto, a World Series champion catcher, died from a heart attack at 65 years old.

"The Twins organization mourns the loss of 1987 World Series champion, Tom Nieto," the team said. "Our thoughts are with the Nieto family in their time of grieving."

Davey Lopes, an iconic Dodger and longtime MLB coach, passed away at 80 years old.

"Lopes played for the Dodgers, A's, Cubs and Astros over a 16-year Major League career before coaching in the big leagues from 1988-2017, ultimately spending nearly a half-century career in baseball. He served as manager for the Brewers from 2000-02 and was the first-base coach and outfield/baserunning instructor for the 2008 Phillies club that won the World Series. He also coached for the Dodgers, Nationals, Orioles and Padres," the MLB announced.

May they all rest in peace.

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This story was originally published April 12, 2026 at 1:05 PM.