Former Red Sox, Phillies Pitcher Gary Wagner Dies

Wagner spent six seasons in MLB with the Phillies and Red Sox.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 2:22am

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Gary Wagner, a former Major League Baseball pitcher who played for the Philadelphia Phillies and Boston Red Sox over a six-year career, has died at the age of 85. Wagner compiled a 15-19 record with a 3.70 ERA in 162 games, mostly in relief, during his time in the majors from 1965 to 1971.

Why it matters

Wagner's passing marks the end of an era for two storied MLB franchises, the Phillies and Red Sox, who both employed the right-handed pitcher during his professional career. His death is a somber reminder of the fleeting nature of athletic careers and the mortality of former players who provided entertainment and joy to fans.

The details

Wagner spent the majority of his MLB career with the Phillies from 1965 to 1969 before being traded to the Red Sox, where he played the final two seasons of his career in 1969 and 1970. He split the 1971 season between the Red Sox and minor leagues before retiring.

  • Wagner died on March 11, 2026.
  • He played in the majors from 1965 to 1971.

The players

Gary Wagner

A former right-handed pitcher who played six seasons in Major League Baseball for the Philadelphia Phillies and Boston Red Sox.

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The takeaway

Wagner's career, while relatively short, spanned two of the most iconic franchises in baseball history. His passing serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of athletic careers and the importance of honoring the legacies of former players who contributed to the game.