Ex-Tides manager Ron Johnson dies of COVID-19 complications

Former Triple-A Norfolk manager Ron Johnson, who spent seven years in the Orioles organization and became one of its most popular members, died today in Tennessee of complications from COVID-19. He was 64.

Family members confirmed the news to The Virginian-Pilot.

Johnson is Norfolk's all-time winningest manager with a 491-511 record, an impressive accomplishment given the large turnover in personnel and constant shuttling of players between the majors and minors. He was named International League Manager of the Year in 2015.

The Orioles chose Johnson as the recipient of the Cal Ripken Sr. Award, honoring the top minor league staff member, in 2015 and 2018. However, he was dismissed following the 2018 season.

Johnson compiled a 1,752-1,770 record in 24 seasons as a manager in the minors and served as Red Sox first base coach in 2010-11,

"The Orioles are devastated to learn of the passing of former Norfolk Tides manager Ron Johnson," the Orioles said in a statement. "In his seven years at the helm of Baltimore's Triple-A affiliate, Ron led countless players in their journey to the big leagues. He was recognized for his leadership and passion for the game of baseball as a two-time recipient of the Cal Ripken Sr. Award given to a minor league staff member who exemplifies Ripken's qualities as an instructor leading 'The Oriole Way.' The Orioles extend their heartfelt condolences to his wife, Daphne, his five children, and the rest of his family and friends as they mourn this incredible loss."

"Our entire organization is devastated by this news," Norfolk general manager Joe Gregory said in a statement. "R.J. was a fantastic manager who always got so much out of his players, but he was an even better person behind the scenes. His personality and love of the game made him one of baseball's outstanding people, and he'll truly be missed."

Johnson had the pleasure of managing his son, Chris, a corner infielder, during the 2017 season. He'd often be included on former manager Buck Showalter's expanded coaching staff in September.

Johnson is survived by his wife, Daphne, and five children.

Twitter was flooded with tributes to Johnson, who entertained fans at Harbor Park with his humor, colorful quotes and animated ejections - including the tossing of his cap into the stands behind the first base dugout.

"Just awful," wrote former pitcher Steve Johnson. "I'll never forget his very casual way of doing things, especially when he told me I was getting the call to the big leagues. Had a lot of talks with him every game in the dugout during my time in Norfolk. That man was a gem."

"Dang this one hurts!," wrote former reliever Donnie Hart. "Was an absolute blast to play for. Always knew he had your back!!"

"This one hurts," wrote pitcher Josh Rogers. "My thoughts and prayers are with his family. RJ was so much fun to play for and made coming to the field fun."

"This is terrible," wrote former minor league infielder Drew Dosch. "RJ always knew when to pick you up, when to kick you in the butt, and when to flat out tell you that you stunk that day/week/month. I always felt like he gave me what I needed, not what I wanted - and I will forever appreciate that."

"There are so many stories about Ron Johnson that I enjoy sharing with people," wrote former Orioles closer Zack Britton. "A man that stayed in the shadows but helped so many players accomplish their dream of reaching the big leagues. Just a great man that loved his family, baseball, horses and a good laugh. RIP RJ."

Johnson and former Norfolk pitching coach Mike Griffin were practically inseparable in spring training, which is one of my most vivid memories of the duo. They'd eat breakfast together in the hotel lobby and dinner just about every night at the same chain Italian restaurant on University Boulevard.

You'd always get a warm greeting from Johnson, no matter how many times he saw you. A big smile, handshake and pat on the back. He loved to talk baseball and was one of the funniest guys I've met on the beat.

He loved life and expressed it at every opportunity. He's gone much too soon.

This one hurts.