Former Blue Jays manager Jimy Williams dead at 80

Former Toronto Blue Jays manager Jimy Williams has died. He was 80.

The Boston Red Sox, where Williams also managed, said he died Friday at AdventHealth North Pinellas Hospital in Tarpon Springs, Florida, after a brief illness. Williams lived in nearby Palm Harbor.

Williams joined the Blue Jays in 1980 as third-base coach. He was promoted to manager in 1986 to replace Bobby Cox, who left to join the Atlanta Braves. He had a 281-241 record over 522 games with the Blue Jays before being fired in 1989 after Toronto got off to a 12-24 start.

Cito Gaston took over and helped Toronto win the American League East title.

Williams returned to managing in 1997 with Boston and led the Red Sox to the playoffs in 1998 and 1999, when he was named American League manager of the year.

We are saddened to learn of the passing of former Blue Jays Manager Jimy Williams. His impact on our organization will forever be remembered. ⁰⁰Our hearts go out to Jimy’s family and friends during this difficult time