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How did Jim Poole die? Tributes pour in as former MLB pitcher passes away at 57

Former big leagues pitcher Jim Poole, 57, who was diagnosed with ALS, dies in Georgia

ATLANTA, GEORGIA: Jim Poole, the 57-year-old former big leagues pitcher, died at his home of complications from ALS on October 6, 2023, surrounded by his family.

The news of his death was announced by his alma mater Georgia Tech.

He was diagnosed with ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative condition also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, in 2021, reported the New York Post.

Poole is survived by his wife Kim, three children, and two grandchildren.

Jim Poole pitched in the big leagues for 11 seasons

Poole stepped into the majors with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1990. The left-handed reliever predominantly played with the Baltimore Orioles, Cleveland Indians, and San Francisco Giants.

Before his retirement after the 2000 season, Poole had also briefly played for the Texas Rangers, Philadelphia Phillies, Detroit Tigers, and Montreal Expos.

Over his career, Poole made 431 appearances, all of them out of the bullpen. He finished 22-12 with four saves and a 4.31 ERA.

A native of Rochester, New York, Poole arrived at Georgia Tech and helped the Yellow Jackets win four straight Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament championships.

He still ranks first in the school record book with 22 career saves, including 10 as a junior and nine as a senior.

During his stint there, Poole pitched in 120 games and struck out 263 batters in 188 innings.

Poole was an All-ACC selection in his last two seasons. He graduated with a degree in electrical engineering and became a part of the Georgia Tech Sports Hall of Fame.

Danny Hall, Georgia Tech's baseball coach, said in a statement, “It broke my heart this morning to learn of Jim Poole’s passing. He was a first-class husband, father, and teammate. He loved Georgia Tech and was dedicated to serving our coaches and players for many years. He epitomized the meaning of a Tech man. God rest his soul.”

Poole had returned to his alma mater after retiring from the big leagues to raise funds and support the baseball program. He also served as the pitching coach at Johns Creek High School in suburban Atlanta.

After being diagnosed with ALS, Poole worked to raise awareness for the disease.

During the 2022 basketball season, he hosted an ALS Awareness Day, with the Yellow Jackets wearing Jim Poole shirts and both teams wearing honorary wristbands.

Poole's Number 21 is now assigned by Georgia Tech to the player who exemplifies self-determination, a strong academic work ethic, and high character on and off the field.

Georgia Tech Athletic Director J Batt said, "Jim Poole is a Georgia Tech legend, not just for his incredible achievements on the baseball diamond, but for the way that he attacked ALS over the past two years. He is and will remain an inspiration.”

Jim Pool is remembered by his teams on social media

The official X handle of Cleveland Guardians posted, "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Cleveland Indians 1995 World Series pitcher Jim Poole. Poole, 57, was diagnosed with ALS just two years ago. Our thoughts are with the Poole family."

"We are saddened by the passing of former MLB pitcher Jim Poole at 57. Jim appeared in 431 games from 1990-2000 and pitched for Cleveland in the 1995 World Series. A consummate teammate & venerable clubhouse presence, he was an integral part of our 2022 Lou Gehrig Day & will be remembered as a graceful warrior in the fight against ALS. Our thoughts are with Jim’s family & friends," wrote MLB on X.

The Giants posted, "The #SFGiants are saddened to learn of the passing of former Giants pitcher Jim Poole. Poole spent parts of three seasons in the orange and black, including the ‘97 division-winning campaign. We extend our deepest condolences to the Poole family."