Felix Mantilla, a former All-Star with the Boston Red Sox and World Series champion with the Milwaukee Braves, has passed away at the age of 90. Mantilla’s legacy in baseball remains strong, particularly in Milwaukee, where he made a lasting impact both on and off the field. Though the Braves have since relocated to Atlanta, Mantilla’s contributions to the city’s baseball history and the current Brewers franchise are still deeply cherished. In honor of his legacy, the Brewers paid tribute to Mantilla on Saturday, reflecting on his lasting influence on the Milwaukee baseball community.
The Brewers issued a heartfelt statement expressing their sorrow over Mantilla’s death, calling him an “iconic figure” who inspired generations in the Milwaukee area. Beyond his baseball achievements, Mantilla was known for his efforts to give back to the community. He played a key role in founding the Felix Mantilla Little League, a youth baseball league in Milwaukee that still operates today. The league continues to introduce young people to the values of teamwork, discipline, and fun, principles that Mantilla instilled in countless children throughout his life.
The Brewers’ statement also highlighted Mantilla’s enduring connection to the team and the city, emphasizing that his impact went far beyond his time with the Milwaukee Braves. “We will forever remember Felix for his time with the Milwaukee Braves, but even more for the impact he had on thousands of children through the Felix Mantilla Little League,” the statement read. The Brewers expressed their condolences to Mantilla’s wife, Kay, and to all those mourning his loss, including his many friends and family members.
Felix Mantilla
Milwaukee’s mayor, Cavalier Johnson, also paid tribute to Mantilla, describing him as a “remarkable” individual whose legacy extended far beyond his achievements in baseball. “He was both a baseball All-Star and a world champion,” Johnson wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “His community work included the Félix Mantilla Little League—introducing youngsters to teamwork, discipline, and fun.” The mayor offered his thoughts to Mantilla’s family and fans, further solidifying Mantilla’s place as a beloved figure in Milwaukee’s history.
Mantilla’s baseball career was highlighted by his role in the Milwaukee Braves’ success during the late 1950s. A key contributor to the team’s National League pennants in 1957 and 1958, Mantilla helped lead the Braves to a historic upset of the New York Yankees in the 1957 World Series. As a teammate of baseball legend Hank Aaron, Mantilla’s presence on the field helped cement his place in the annals of both Braves and baseball history. His passing marks the end of an era for Milwaukee, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes and community members alike.
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