Former Dodgers General Manager and Public Relations Executive Fred Claire passed away on Monday, Oct. 5, at age 91, on his birthday. Claire is survived by his three children, Jeff, Jennifer and Kim and alongside them, his wife, Sheryl.
Fred Claire was born in Jamestown, Ohio, where he lived until he was 15. He then moved to Torrance, California, around 30 minutes from Dodger Stadium. He attended and graduated from Torrance High School and San Jose State University with a bachelor’s degree.
According to the Los Angeles Dodgers, Claire began his career as a sportswriter in the 1950’s and ‘60s. From there, he became involved with the Dodgers, covering their spring training in 1969 for The Long Beach Press-Telegram. He eventually joined the Dodgers organization and worked his way up, when he first started as a public relations executive, to become the team’s vice president in 1975 and finally the general manager in 1987. His 11-year tenure with the Dodgers was a solid success; in 1988 the Dodgers won the World Series against the Oakland Athletics in five games. The same year, Claire won the Sporting News Executive of the Year.
Being the driving force behind acquiring Kirk Gibson and other key veteran players. Gibson spent three years with the Dodgers and was best known for his legendary walk-off home run in game one of the 1988 World Series. Legendary Dodger broadcaster Vin Scully called that home run with magic, saying, “High fly ball into right field…she is gone!’
According to ESPN, “During his tenure, Claire was instrumental in creating the Dodger Blue branding and Think Blue campaign.” This further shows the impact he made culturally for the Dodgers.
Dodgers released a statement following the passing of Claire.
“The Dodgers are grieving the passing of Fred Claire, a longtime key fixture of our organization,” said Stan Kasten, president and CEO of the Los Angeles Dodgers. “Fred brought many victories and Dodger legends to our franchise, as well as a 1988 World Series title, and we are forever grateful for his leadership during such a memorable era. Our hearts go out to his wife Sheryl and his family.”
Claire left the Dodgers organization in 1998, and although he never became crucial in another organization’s front office, the cultural impact i on team building and on the Dodgers will forever be remembered.
