Twins Star Puckett Dead at 45

By Heath Bloxton
For 12 years, Kirby Puckett played the game of baseball. As a Major League player, Puckett enjoyed the game as much as one could. Opposing hitters would look to the outfield to see a 5’8, pudgy man, jump as high as the wall that stood above him. Although short and rather chubby, Puckett played the centerfield position to the best of his ability. Throughout his career, Puckett made a habit of making teammates, fans and even rivals, laugh. However, on March 6, Puckett made the world cry in agony, as he passed away at the age of 45.

Puckett’s sudden death was caused by a massive stroke at his home in Arizona. “Puck” was a “walking bowling ball” that could hit, field, and simply win. Throughout his years with the Minnesota Twins organization, Puckett donned a .318 batting average, six gold gloves, and two World Series titles. Kirby Puckett also earned a spot in Cooperstown, where his legacy will remain forever in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Puckett was the heart and sole of the Minnesota Twins organization. When fans came to the ballpark, they wanted to see Kirby Puckett. He was a man that was loved by many people. He was a role model, a baseball player, and had a smile that would stretch across the entire state of Minnesota.