Julio Lugo dead at 45: Former Red Sox shortstop passes away following heart attack

FORMER Boston Red Sox shortstop Julio Lugo passed away after suffering a suspected heart attack.

The former MLB star's death was confirmed by his family on Monday. Lugo was 45-years-old at the time of his death.

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According to ESPN, Lugo's family believes the ex-baseball player suffered a heart attack.

The former MLB star was set to turn 46 years old Tuesday.

Lugo was drafted by the Houston Astros in 1994 and eventually played in the MLB for 12 seasons.

Lugo was the older brother of pitcher Ruddy Lugo.

The Dominican Republic native played for seven different organizations from 2000-11.

Lugo suited up for the Astros, Tampa Bay Rays, Los Angeles Dodgers, Red Sox, San Louis Cardinals, Baltimore Orioles and Atlanta Braves; however, he was most known for his time in Boston.

Playing three seasons with the Red Sox, Lugo's and Boston won the 2007 World Series, completing a four-game sweep of the Colorado Rockies.

Lugo logged 1,279 hits in his career, accumulated 198 base steals and a batting average of .269.

'HE TAUGHT US A LOT'

The internet is honoring Lugo, shedding light on his life.

Will Middlebrooks, a fellow MLB player, wrote on Twitter: "RIP Julio Lugo. Back in 2008 I was in extended spring training getting ready for my first season with the Lowell Spinners. He spent some time with us young kids in Ft. Myers during a rehab assignment. He taught us a lot about infield routines and how to be a professional.

Josh Reddick, another MLB player, said: "RIP Julip Lugo. He helped me early on in my career with my routine and to stick to it regardless of outcome."

His former team, the Red Sox, shared a statement saying: "The Red Sox mourn the loss of former shortstop and 2007 World Series Champion Julio Lugo.

"We send our thoughts and love to the Lugo family."

Lugo is heavily respected for delivering a walk-off hit in the famous Mother’s Day Miracle in 2007. 

In the ninth inning, he provided the final RBI of a six-run rally to defeat the Orioles, 6-5, after trailing 5-0.

METS PEDRO FELICIANO DIES AT 45

Lugo's death comes a week after former New York Mets pitcher Pedro Feliciano died on November 8 at 45.

ESPN analyst Eduardo Perez claims Feliciano passed away in his sleep on Sunday night.

Following the news of his death, the Mets released a state confirming the loss to "their family."

"Pedro Feliciano will be remembered as a beloved member of the Mets organization for his impact as a great teammate as well as his reputation as one of the most competitive, durable and reliable relievers during his time in Queens," the team said in a statement.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Feliciano family. Rest in peace, Pedro."

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