Bob Watson, Former MLB All Star & General Manager, Dies At 74

Bob Watson was the first black general manager to win the World Series, winning with the New York Yankees in 1996. Watson was also a two-time All Star during his career. It was announced Friday morning that Watson had died at 74 on Thursday night due to complications with a kidney disease, according to Watson’s son.

Watson played the majority of his career for the Houston Astros and in a statement, the team talked about the impact Watson had on the franchise and on baseball as a whole. “This is a very sad day for the Astros and for all of baseball. Bob Watson enjoyed a unique and remarkable career in Major League Baseball that spanned six decades, reaching success at many different levels, including as a player, coach, general manager and MLB executive,” the team said. “He was an All-Star on the field and a true pioneer off of it, admired and respected by everyone he played with or worked alongside. Bob will be missed, but not forgotten.”

Watson as an All Star in 1973 and 1975, was an anchor in the Astros’ lineup during his time playing for them. He had a career batting average of .295, hit 184 home runs, and has 989 RBIs. 

After retiring from being the Yankees general manager in 1997, he later went on to serve in the MLB offices in various roles.

In 1994, Watson was diagnosed with prostate cancer and became an advocate in raising awareness for the disease. Watson dealt with other health issues, including issues with his kidneys. 

Watson is survived by his wife Carol and his two children, Kelley and Keith.