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?
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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.?
Saddened beyond words. Dave was an awesome guy and nobody did a more fun and lively broadcast than him and Andy. Prayers for his family. 🙏⚾️
— Bob Carpenter (@scorebook_bob) March 5, 2023
Very sad news. For Rays fans like myself, based in the UK, he was one of the voices who brought the game into my house. Thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.
— Duncan Wood (@duncankwood) March 5, 2023
With heavy hearts, we send our deepest condolences to Dave's family, friends and the entire Rays organization. Thinking of all of you during this tough time.
— Miami Marlins (@Marlins) March 5, 2023
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.??
So sorry for your loss. You two were terrific together.
— Marc Kestecher (@marckestecher) March 5, 2023
So sorry for your loss, Andy. One of the best radio teams in the league. Would listen to you guys often when possible.
— Wayne Randazzo (@WayneRandazzo) March 5, 2023
Andy, I will never forget how the two of you talked me down from an out-of-body experience before my 1st radio game. It was generous and supportive – a description of Dave, as you know. It was always a pleasure to visit with you. Please accept my most sincere condolences.
— Keith Olbermann⌚️ (@KeithOlbermann) March 5, 2023
All of us with the @Mets are heartbroken today, Andy. We’ve dedicated our broadcast this afternoon to Dave. Our deepest condolences to you, his family, and the Rays organization.
— Howie Rose (@HowieRose) March 5, 2023
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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.?
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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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