Former All-Star Beck dead at 38

Longtime MLB closer found in his home on Saturday

06/24/2007 3:20 PM ET

By Barry M. Bloom / MLB.com

SAN FRANCISCO -- Rod Beck, a former reliever for the Giants, Padres, Cubs and Red Sox, has passed away, a Giants official said on Sunday. Beck was 38 years old.

The Giants were informed of Beck's death on Saturday night and informed the players, announcers and front-office staff, who were openly speaking about the death prior to Sunday's game against the Yankees at AT&T Park. An official statement was being held pending notification of Beck's family.

No details have emerged, but Beck had a history of substance abuse and went into drug rehab only months before his career ended with the Padres in 2004. The Giants said Beck was found dead at home in his bed.

"It comes as a complete shock," said Barry Bonds, who played with Beck on the Giants from 1993 to 1997. "We all just found out. He was a great guy, great for us when he was here."

Beck came up with the Giants in 1991 and holds the team record for most saves in a single season with 48 in 1993. His 199 saves with the Giants is second in club history to Robb Nen, who finished with 206 and his 286 saves during his 13-year career places him 22nd on Major League Baseball's all-time list.

Beck was a three-time All-Star with the Giants, making the NL squad in 1993, '94 and '97. He saved 48 games for the Giants in 1993, and saved 51 for the Cubs in 1998.