Blast - Former MLB pitcher killed by lightning

Former MLB pitcher Geremi Gonzalez was killed on a Venezuelan beach Sunday at the age of 33. He won 11 games for the Cubs in 1997 and was well thought of around the league.

“The Chicago Cubs are very saddened today to learn of Geremi Gonzalez’s sudden passing,” Cubs GM John Hendry said. “Geremi began his career as a Cub, leading our pitching staff with 11 wins as a rookie in 1997 and, despite an arm injury, helping the club early in the season a year later to an eventual postseason appearance. The organization sends its heartfelt condolences to his family.”

Others, such as Brewers manager Ned Yost, feel the same way.

“He was so much fun to be around. He was always happy, always smiling,” Yost said. “He was a guy that could scare real easy and then horse laugh. He was just one of those guys that when he saw you, he always had a smile on his face.”

Micah Warren is the Blast Magazine sports editor

In Baseball, Sports on May 27, 2008 at 20:34