Juan Pedro Villaman
Juan Pedro “J.P.” Villaman died in a car accident this morning on his return drive from Logan Airport after flying from New York City. His nickname with the Red Sox players was “Papa Oso,” which means “Papa Bear.” When an opposing hitter struck out, his signature call was “Sientate!” He is survived by his wife and three children.
This April article from The Eagle Tribune tells of his joy in receiving a World Series ring as well his influence in broadening the fanbase of the Red Sox to other continents. In 2001, when Bill Kulik founded the Spanish Beisbol Network and acquired the rights to broadcast every Red Sox game in Spanish, he immediately called upon Villaman to be part of the broadcast. Kulik plans to honor Villaman’s memory tonight by using his signature strikeout call.
Requiescat in pace.
