Atlantic League Executive Passes Away

PHILADELPHIA – Joe Klein, who presided over baseball operations as Executive Director of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball since its inception in 1998, and saw the league send over 800 players to MLB organizations as the circuit became the premier independent professional baseball organization, died at Temple University Hospital from heart surgery complications on Wednesday morning at the age of 75. The Bridgeport Bluefish are charter members of the Atlantic League, having been members since the league’s inception in 1998.

In a career that spanned six decades, Klein spent time as a player, manager, scout, scouting director and farm director before serving as GM of the Texas Rangers (1983-84), Cleveland Indians (1986-87) and Detroit Tigers (1994-95), roles he is most widely known for in Major League Baseball. In 1997, when Atlantic League Founder Frank Boulton needed a baseball man to run the on field operations of what would become a start up league in 1998, his list was one name long.

“Today is a very sad day for the Atlantic League and for baseball,” said Frank Boulton, who founded the Atlantic League. “Joe’s contributions to the game and the Atlantic League are immeasurable. He was a great leader who guided the development of our league for over 20 years with his knowledge, grace and respect for every owner, front office staff member, manager, player and fan. There is a great hole in the heart of the Atlantic League today. But in time, it will fill in as we fondly remember our dear friend and mentor, Joe Klein.”

Klein, who made a local appearance last year as Keynote Speaker at the Hot Stove Banquet hosted by the Bluefish, was officially named Executive Director of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball Clubs in 1998, a position he served in until his passing. During his tenure, the league drew 37 million fans and saw a bevy of players return to Major League Baseball from the Atlantic League—a pipeline he helped create and sustain for 20 years. Klein is predeceased by his wife, Cathy, and is survived by his sons J.K. and Todd, daughters-in-law Ruth and Robin, and granddaughter Hannah.

“Joe was a dear friend and esteemed colleague,” said Rick White, president of the Atlantic League. “We feel fortunate to have spent the time we did with him and send our heartfelt condolences to his family and his many friends in the baseball community.”

—Staff Reports