TAMPA, Fla. — Dave Wills, the Tampa Bay Rays' team radio broadcaster for the past 18 years, has died at the age of 58, the team announced Sunday.
Wills called some of the most memorable moments in Rays history, including the team’s run to the World Series in 2008 and 2020. Wills was known for his play-by-play calling, his insightful analysis and his personality. Rays officials said his contributions to the Rays organization and the Tampa Bay community will never be forgotten.
The Tampa Bay Rays are deeply saddened to announce the passing of longtime radio announcer Dave Wills.
— Tampa Bay Rays (@RaysBaseball) March 5, 2023
A beloved figure throughout the Tampa Bay community and Major League Baseball, he will be missed dearly. pic.twitter.com/k9iiQOsL4u
“Baseball is a game of wins and losses, and this is our loss," said Rays TV play-by-play man Dewayne Staats. "But Dave was a winner in a lot of ways. He was a winner as a broadcaster, but also as a winner as husband to Liz, and as a father and son.”
Staats said he saw Wills on Saturday during the Rays game against the New York Yankees.
"We went over as fans just to watch, and Dave and Andy are radioing the game. Waved, he smiled, he seemed to be fine, then to wake up the next morning, and hear the news was absolutely shocking," he said.
“Dave was an outstanding broadcaster, a great friend and an even better person,” said Rays Principal Owner Stuart Sternberg. “He had a remarkable talent for bringing the game to life for our fans and was a vital part of the Rays family. We will miss him dearly and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Officials said the Rays will honor Wills with a special pregame tribute this season and details will be announced at a later date.
Rays TV analyst Brian Anderson said Wills took it personally when the Rays lost.
“Again, you go back to his passion. His passion for this game, his passion for this team, this organization, the friendships he had downstairs," Anderson said.