Tim McGraw shared a sweet tribute to his late father to observe Tug McGraw’s birthday (August 30). The “Humble and Kind” country artist shared a throwback photo on his social media channels, sharing in his caption: “Happy birthday Tugger!! Today would have been my Dad's 78th birthday!”
The Tug McGraw Foundation, which reposted Tim McGraw’s message, deemed it “one of our favorite photos” of the late Major League Baseball player. The nonprofit organization “is a grassroots organization established by former MLB pitcher, Tug McGraw to enhance the quality of life for individuals diagnosed with debilitating neurological brain conditions such as brain tumors, mild-traumatic brain injury, and post-traumatic stress,” its website reads. “We aim to improve quality of life for those affected by brain-related trauma and tumors through education, resources and brain wellness programs.”
Tug McGraw was an MLB player for the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies. He died in January of 2004 in Brentwood, Tennessee, reportedly after a battle with brain cancer. He was 59. Social media users shared their own heavenly birthday tributes to Tug McGraw on his son’s post, deeming him a Phillies champion and referencing his catch phrase, “ya gotta believe.” See Tim McGraw’s post for his dad here: