On Monday, Tony Gwynn lost his four-year battle with cancer in his salivary gland.
Gwynn became known to fans simply as "Mr. Padre" after playing for the club for 20 seasons. Recognized as one of the most consistent hitters of all time, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2007.
During his time with the Padres, Gwynn was named an All-Star 15 times and the National League batting champion eight times.
Gwynn had attributed his salivary cancer to years of using chewing tobacco.
Major League Baseball today mourns the tragic loss of Tony Gwynn, the greatest Padre ever and one of the most accomplished hitters that our game has ever known, whose all-around excellence on the field was surpassed by his exuberant personality and genial disposition in life. Tony was synonymous with San Diego Padres baseball, and with his .338 career batting average and eight batting titles, he led his beloved ballclub to its greatest heights, including two National League pennants.
His death shocked and saddened the baseball community:
We are terribly sad to say goodbye to our teammate, our friend and a legend, Tony Gwynn. Rest in peace, Mr. Padre.
We mourn the passing of Hall of Famer and @Padres icon Tony Gwynn, who died today at the age of 54.
Sad day in baseball..We lost one of the greatest hitters that ever played! Tony Gwynn you will be missed by many! Prayers out to his family!
My Deepest prayers and condolences to the family of Tony Gywnn. No player carried himself with more class, dignity, and kindness.