Fred Claire Obituary, LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Fred Claire, the longtime Los Angeles Dodgers executive who helped guide the franchise to its 1988 World Series championship, has died on October 5, 2026, his 91st birthday. Claire was remembered for his decades of service to the Dodgers organization and his influence on both the team’s public identity and baseball operations.
Born on October 5, 1935, in Jamestown, Ohio, Claire grew up in a small-town family where his father owned and operated a drugstore. In 1950, he moved with his parents and siblings to Torrance, California, where he later graduated from Torrance High School. He continued his education at San Jose State University, earning a journalism degree, and also received an associate degree from Mt. San Antonio College, which later recognized him as an outstanding alumnus.
Claire began his connection with the Dodgers in 1969 while covering the team during spring training as a journalist. After expressing interest in an opening within the club’s public relations department, he was hired that July and began a career that would span nearly three decades with the organization.
During his time in the Dodgers’ public relations department, Claire rose to become vice president of public relations and played an important role in shaping the team’s image. He was involved in the creation of the “Dodger Blue” and “Think Blue” branding campaigns and helped bring longtime broadcaster Ross Porter into the organization.
In 1987, Claire became the Dodgers’ general manager following the resignation of Al Campanis. He worked to rebuild the roster and assembled a team that captured one of the most memorable championships in franchise history. His acquisitions of players including Kirk Gibson, Mike Davis, Alfredo Griffin, Jay Howell, and Jesse Orosco helped lead the Dodgers to a 1988 World Series victory over the Oakland Athletics.
Claire’s career also included challenging moments, including trades and signings that did not produce the expected results. The 1994 trade involving Pedro Martínez became one of the most discussed decisions of his tenure after Martínez went on to become one of baseball’s greatest pitchers. Despite those challenges, Claire remained respected for his professionalism, integrity, and commitment to the Dodgers organization.
His time with the Dodgers ended in 1998 after the team was sold to Rupert Murdoch’s News Corporation. Following a major trade completed by new executives without his involvement, Claire was dismissed in an event later referred to as the “Sunday Night Massacre.”
Fred Claire devoted nearly 30 years to the Los Angeles Dodgers, leaving behind a legacy built through public relations leadership, baseball operations, and dedication to one of Major League Baseball’s most historic franchises. His contributions to the Dodgers’ identity and championship success will continue to be remembered. Condolences are extended to his family, friends, and all who were impacted by his life and career. May he rest in peace.