Some unfortunate news has came across the wire, former Rays pitcher Joe Kennedy has passed away this morning at his Florida home. His family was at his side, and the cause of death is undetermined [editor's note, by R.J. Anderson] Apparently Ken Rosenthal has reported the cause of death was results from a brain aneurysm. We send our condolences and prayers to the Kennedy family, at 28 Joe was far too young to be taken from them and the world.
Obviously this is quite shocking, Kennedy was a free agent coming off a season where he pitched with three teams including the Oakland Athletics, Toronto Blue Jays, and Arizona Diamondbacks. I have fond memories of Joe -- despite not working out for the Rays. He was our first legit starting pitching prospect and won 18 games with the Rays before being traded in a three team deal with the Rays receiving Mark Hendrickson in return. His final appearance in 2007 was in a relief role as the Jays defeated the Rays.
He's survived by his wife and one year old son. Rest in peace Joe Kennedy on this black Friday indeed.
Joe Kennedy May 24th, 1979 - November 23rd, 2007