Former MLB pitcher Wes Gardner, who spent eight seasons in the majors with the New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, San Diego Padres, and Kansas City Royals, has passed away at the age of 65.
Gardner’s death was announced by longtime Mets public relations executive Jay Horwitz. A versatile right-hander who worked as both a starter and reliever, Gardner debuted with the Mets in 1984 after being selected in the 22nd round of the 1982 MLB Draft out of the University of Central Arkansas.
He later became part of a significant eight-player trade between the Mets and Red Sox prior to the 1986 season.
Although a shoulder injury sidelined him for most of that year, Gardner established himself as a reliable member of Boston’s pitching staff from 1987 through 1990.
His best season came in 1988 when he posted an 8-6 record with a 3.50 ERA over a career-high 149 innings, helping the Red Sox reach the American League Championship Series.
He later had brief stints with the Padres and Royals before retiring from professional baseball in 1991.
Following his playing career, Gardner was honored for his accomplishments when he was inducted into the University of Central Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame in 2001.
He leaves behind a legacy as a respected major league pitcher who spent nearly a decade competing at baseball’s highest level.
