Former Major League Baseball commissioner Fay Vincent died at age 86 on Sunday due to complications from bladder cancer. Current commissioner Rob Manfred released the following statement:

“Fay Vincent played a vital role in ensuring that the 1989 Bay Area World Series resumed responsibly following the earthquake prior to Game 3, and he oversaw the process that resulted in the 1993 National League expansion to Denver and Miami. Mr. Vincent served the game during a time of many challenges, and he remained proud of his association with our National Pastime throughout his life. On behalf of Major League Baseball, I extend my deepest condolences to Fay’s family and friends.”

Vincent served as commissioner from Sept. 13, 1989 – shortly following the death of predecessor Bart Giamatti – until Sept. 7, 1992.

His short tenure was marked by major events, including a lockout in 1990 and expansion plans for the Rockies and Marlins. One of his significant challenges was managing the 1989 World Series, which was interrupted by the Loma Prieta Earthquake.

Vincent was born May 29, 1938, in Waterbury, Connecticut, and his journey included overcoming severe injuries from a prank accident in college. Before becoming commissioner, he held various leadership roles, including vice president of Coca-Cola and chairman of Columbia Pictures.

Vincent’s legacy includes his stance on the single-season home run record, where he ruled Roger Maris’ 61 home runs as the record during his tenure.

Vincent resigned in 1992 due to loss of support from ownership, stating that his resignation was in the best interests of baseball.