Johnny Pesky: 1919-2012

One of the biggest names in Red Sox lore is gone. Johnny Pesky, who had been part of the Red Sox organization for more than 60 years, passed away at the age of 92. He died at a hospice house north of Boston and cause of death was not announced.

Pesky first joined the Red Sox organization in 1939 and made his debut in 1942 after two years of minor league play. That year he had 205 hits as a rookie which was the team record until Nomar Garciaparra broke it in 1997. He would serve three years in the navy during WWII afterwards rejoining the Red Sox. Pesky was said to have hit a home run that curled around the RF foul pole. From then on it was known as Pesky's Pole.

After his playing career, he would manage a bit working through the minors and made his way back to the majors managing for the Red Sox for a couple of seasons in '63 and '64. He later returned to the Red Sox as a broadcaster, then a coach on the team, interim manager in 1980, then coach again to instructor. For over 60 years, Pesky has been part of the Red Sox in one way or another.

Johnny Pesky has been a beloved part of the Red Sox Nation and we will never forget what he has done for the team, the game, and the city of Boston.