Fred Claire, General Manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers' 1988 Title Season, Dies at 91
Fred Claire, the general manager who transitioned from sports writing to Dodgers management and delivered the 1988 World Series championship, has passed away at the age of 91.
Fred Claire, a former general manager who served the Los Angeles Dodgers for 30 years after transitioning from sports journalism to club management and played a vital role in the team's 1988 World Series victory, passed away in Pasadena on his 91st birthday.
From Press to Club Management
After his early years as a sports writer and editor, Fred Claire joined the Los Angeles Dodgers organization, maintaining a 30-year career in public relations and general manager positions within the club.
Battle with Cancer
Claire was diagnosed with squamous cell skin cancer on his lip in January 2015, and following a cancer recurrence, he underwent various surgical operations and radiation treatments over the course of 11 years.
Public Relations Successes
Joining the club's public relations department in 1969, Claire played a key role in building the Dodger Blue brand, the Think Blue campaign, and the team surpassing the three-million-attendance mark.
Rise to General Manager
Following the dismissal of Al Campanis due to controversial television remarks, Claire was appointed general manager with full responsibility for baseball operations by team owner Peter O'Malley.
1988 World Series Triumph
In his first full season as general manager, thanks to roster additions like Kirk Gibson and other players, the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Oakland Athletics to capture an unforgettable World Series championship.
Team Sale and Departure
Following the O'Malley family's sale of the club to Rupert Murdoch's company and the trade of Mike Piazza without his knowledge, Claire departed from his position in June 1998 and never worked full-time in professional baseball again.