Hector Ortiz, a fixture of the Texas Rangers organization, died on Wednesday after a prolonged battle with cancer, the team announced. He was 54 years old.
The Rangers released the following:
Mr. Ortiz was a beloved member of the Texas Rangers organization who had an enormous impact as a teacher of the game, a mentor to players and staff, and a loyal friend to so many. He brought a positive attitude and spirit to the ballpark each and every day, and his influence on the Rangers’ baseball operations department will not soon be forgotten.
His courageous fight of more than three years against cancer inspired Rangers coach Bobby Wilson to design a blue hoodie with a Texas-inspired catcher’s mask and “Hector Strong” on the sleeve with proceeds of the hoodie sales going to support families battling cancer.
The Rangers send their thoughts and prayers to Hector’s wife Elaine, children Christian, Rian, and Logan, and all his friends and family at their loss. He will not be forgotten.
Ortiz had been on the Rangers’ player development staff the last three seasons. He was…
