Angels Mourn Bob Boone, Franchise's All-Time Leader in Games Caught, Dead at 78

The Los Angeles Angels are mourning the death of one of the most accomplished catchers in franchise history.

Bob Boone, a seven-time Gold Glove winner who helped the California Angels win two American League West titles during the 1980s, died Monday at age 78.

The organization paid tribute to Boone on Tuesday, remembering his leadership, defensive excellence and contributions to the franchise.

“Our franchise leader in games caught, Boone's leadership, exceptional defense and knowledge of the game made him an invaluable presence behind the plate and helped the Angels win two division titles,” the team said.

Boone spent seven seasons with California from 1982 through 1988, appearing in a franchise-record 962 games behind the plate.

He won four Gold Gloves during his Angels tenure, more than any other catcher in franchise history, and earned an American League All-Star selection in 1983.

His arrival in Anaheim followed a decade with the Philadelphia Phillies, where he helped the organization capture its first World Series championship in 1980.

Boone became an important part of the Angels' success during the early and middle portions of the following decade.

He helped California reach the American League Championship Series in 1982 and 1986, when the franchise fell short of its first World Series appearance.

During the 1986 ALCS against Boston, Boone batted .455 with 10 hits in 22 at-bats, including a home run.

One of his most memorable accomplishments came on September 30, 1984, when he caught Mike Witt's perfect game against the Texas Rangers.

Boone's defensive reputation established a standard that later Angels catchers, including Gold Glove winner Martin Maldonado, would follow.

His contributions also stand in contrast to the franchise's more recent difficulties establishing stability behind the plate.

Boone finished his 19-year major league career with 2,225 games caught, a total that ranks third in MLB history.

He later managed the Kansas City Royals and Cincinnati Reds before working in the Washington Nationals' front office.

Boone was also part of baseball's first three-generation major league family. His father, Ray, played 13 seasons, while sons Bret and Aaron both became All-Stars.

His death follows the recent passing of former Angels pitcher Tommy John, another prominent figure from the franchise's 1980s teams.

For Angels fans, Boone will be remembered as a defensive cornerstone whose leadership helped define two of the franchise's earliest division championship teams.