The Minnesota Twins lost a legendary member of its history as longtime clubhouse attendant Wayne “Big Fella” Hattaway died Thursday night at the age of 80.
“We are saddened to hear about the passing of former Twins Clubhouse Attendant, Wayne Hattaway. RIP Big Fella,” the Twins said on social media.
Hattaway, recognizable for his slender frame and bushy mustache, began working with the Twins organization in 1962, eventually joining the big-league club when Ron Gardenhire was named manager in 2002, according to Twins Almanac.
Twins Director of Communications Dustin Morse said Hattaway lost his battle with cancer near his home in Mobile, Alabama.
RIP Big Fella.
He used to tell a player after a bad game that it wasn’t his fault – it was the scout that signed him.
Wayne lost his battle with cancer last night near his home in Mobile, AL. https://t.co/VGK0vLg3t2
— Dustin Morse (@morsecode) May 1, 2020
“Wayne always had a baseball story. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. RIP Big Fella,” tweeted Twins Hall of Fame pitcher and broadcaster Bert Blyleven.
So sorry to hear about the passing of Wayne Hattaway. He loved him his Crimson Tide, his Twins, and his damn never-ending stories. But boy was he beloved!! RIP Big Fella. You’re gone, but never forgotten, my friend….
— Frank J. Viola, Jr. (@FrankViola16) May 1, 2020
Sad to hear of the passing of Wayne Hattaway. Big Fella was a joy to be around. What a great human being. Prayers to his family
— Brian Duensing (@BrianDuensing52) May 1, 2020
Saddened to learn of the passing of longtime Twins clubhouse attendant “Big Fella” Wayne Hattaway. His infectious laughter and positive attitude will be greatly missed. RIP Big’n pic.twitter.com/1AteZI6CoF
— Phil Hughes (@PJHughes45) May 1, 2020
Gonna miss you big fella! This man is a true representation of loving the game of baseball! Rest In Peace, big un’! https://t.co/94wd1uGr37
— Matt garza (@Gdeuceswild) May 1, 2020
