The world of baseball lost a beloved voice on March 5th, 2023, as the iconic radio voice, Dave Wills, sadly breathed his last. The Tampa Bay Rays radio broadcaster passed on Sunday morning at the age of 58. Alongside his partner in crime, Andy Freed, Dave had been the vibrant voice of the Tampa Bay Rays broadcasting team since 2005. In the 18 years at the mic, the radio maven had seen the Rays rise up from the ashes and has been with the team through all their ups and downs, being the voice that all Rays fans hear and love.

He was diagnosed with supraventricular tachycardia and had to take a brief hiatus last season, forcing him to miss the last two weeks of the team?s game. He did come back in full spirits, much to the relief of everyone. And this is why the sudden news of his passing has fans profoundly mourning for Dave and his boundless love for the game. It certainly is hitting the fans as they send in their love and support for his family.?

The baseball world is mourning the loss of the radio personality?

The constant familiar voice that echoed through the homes of the team?s fans will now be heard no more during game broadcasts. A somber cloud has descended upon the baseball fans who, with heavy hearts, are mourning the loss of Dave Wills.

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Everyone is sending their condolences to Dave?s family.?

While fans grieve the loss of their beloved announcer, Dave?s broadcasting partner and dear friend, Andrew, is particularly struck by the sudden news, ?Yesterday was like every other day for the last 18 years. Sharing. Laughs. Baseball. Fun. No way to know it was the last time. Sadness beyond words today. It always felt like we were actual brothers. Will miss him forever. Love to him and his family.??

In a small comfort to those who loved him, Dave?s last game ended on a high note, as he called the Tampa Bay Rays game on Saturday, a thrilling 14-10 victory against the New York Yankees.?

About Dave Wills:

Born and raised in Chicago, Dave Wills? heart belonged to baseball from the very beginning. As a kid, he had always been a fan of the Chicago White Sox. He took to the field as well – as a pitcher in high school and college. But it was in the broadcasting booth that Dave’s true calling lay. His sonorous voice led him to the White Sox, who he loved. From 1997 to 2004, he served as a backup for broadcaster John Rooney on the White Sox radio broadcasts.?

In 2005, Dave made the move to the Tampa Bay Rays, where he became a beloved member of the team. His ability as he breathed life into the game through his voice was unparalleled, and he was an integral part of Ray?s family – team and fans alike. Stuart Sternberg, the Rays? principal owner, said it best when he called him an ?outstanding broadcaster, a great friend, and an even better person.? Though Dave may no longer be with us, his loved voice of baseball will live on forever.

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