BOSTON (WPRI) — Luis Tiant, a member of the Red Sox Hall of Fame, has died at the age of 83, the team announced Tuesday .

In a statement, the team called Tiant “one of the most beloved figures in Red Sox history,” having spent 31 years with the organization as a player, coach, broadcaster and special assignment instructor.

“Luis had the kind of unforgettable presence that made you feel like you were part of his world,” principal owner John Henry wrote. “He was a pitcher with incredible talent, accomplishing so much with a style uniquely his own. But what truly set Luis apart was his zest for life, embracing every moment with an infectious spirit, even in the face of his many challenges.”

“He channeled everything into his love for the game and the people around him,” Henry continued. “He was magnetic and had a smile that could light up Fenway Park. Luis was truly one of a kind and all of us at the Red Sox will miss him.”

Known as “El Tiante,” he pitched for the Red Sox for eight seasons, from 1971 to 1978. He helped lead the team to the 1975 World Series against the Reds, during which he earned wins in Games 1 and 4. He also started Game 6, one of the most memorable games in MLB history, that ended with Carlton Fisk’s dramatic walk-off home run in the 12th inning.

Tiant amassed 229 wins over his 19-year playing career, which also included stints with the Indians, Twins, Yankees, Pirates and Angels. He was a three-time All-Star and two-time American League ERA leader.

A native of Cuba, Tiant is a member of the Hispanic Heritage Hall of Fame.

“Luis embodied everything we love about this game: resilience, passion, and an undeniable sense of belonging to something greater than himself,” Red Sox chairman Tom Werner said. “He was a cornerstone of the Red Sox pitching staff for years, with an unmatched grit and tenacity on the mound. His ability to rise in the most pressure-filled moments — especially his complete-game performances — cemented his place as a true legend. But what makes Luis unforgettable was his vibrant personality. He was a gifted storyteller, always sharing tales filled with humor, honesty, and an enduring loyalty to his teammates. All of us are deeply saddened by his passing. We lost one of the great ones today.”

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