Influential MLB Executive Walt Jocketty Dies at 74

Walt Jocketty, a transformative Major League Baseball executive, has died at age 74 after facing health issues. Jocketty was best known for his 13-year tenure as St. Louis Cardinals general manager from 1994 to 2007, during which the team made seven postseason appearances, won two National League pennants, and secured the 2006 World Series. He was pivotal in hiring Hall of Fame manager Tony La Russa, trading for stars such as Mark McGwire, Jim Edmonds, and Scott Rolen, and drafting future icons Albert Pujols and Yadier Molina. Earlier in his career, Jocketty worked for the Oakland Athletics, contributing to their three consecutive AL pennants from 1988 to 1990, and later held positions with the Colorado Rockies and Cincinnati Reds. He earned multiple MLB Executive of the Year awards over his career. Jocketty is remembered for his lasting influence on teams, players, and the broader baseball community.