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State College Spikes’ Viera dies at 14 from rare disease

Josiah Viera

STATE COLLEGE — The State College Spikes said farewell to one of their own on Christmas Eve.

Bench coach Josiah Viera, who inspired professional baseball players, fans and many more around the country as he battled a rare childhood genetic condition, died on Dec. 24 at the age of 14.

“To all our friends and fans … Josiah left to play baseball with Jesus today,” his family said on various forms of social media Monday. “Our hearts are broken. I know I will see him again soon. I’m gonna miss my baseball talks in the morning. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers.”

At the age of 1, Viera was diagnosed with Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome, a terminal disorder that causes a child to age rapidly. Fewer than 20 people in the United States are diagnosed with the condition, which has an average life expectancy of 8 to 13. The odds of being born with Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome are approximately 1 in 4 million.

Viera had a deep love for baseball and began playing Little League in 2010. His condition prevented him from continuing to play after a few years. However, in 2013 he was introduced to the Spikes, the St. Louis Cardinals’ short-season A affiliate, through the Children’s Miracle Network.

PHOTO COURTESY STATE COLLEGE SPIKES Josiah Viera died on Monday at the age of 14 from Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome.

That turned into a role as honorary bench coach and he was a regular presence with the team — with his own uniform and locker — for years to come. He would also often join Spikes’ broadcasters Steve Jones and Joe Putnam and help broadcast games on the Spikes’ radio network.

In a statement on Monday, the Spikes said Viera’s “joyous spirit and enthusiasm” inspired players, coaches, staff and fans. The Spikes said that his inspiration helped State College to three Pinckney Division titles and two New York-Penn League championships – those coming in 2014 and 2016.

“Josiah’s impact was felt not only here in central Pennsylvania, but throughout the baseball world, and the entire Spikes organization joins in mourning his loss,” Spikes General Manager Scott Walker said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Josiah’s mother, Jennifer, his sister, Daisha, his grandfather, Dave Bohner and with his entire family.”

Viera was the subject of an E:60 documentary on ESPN and a book entitled “A Short Season,” written by former minor league player Jake Gronsky.

Gronsky was extremely close with Viera and his family.

“The main message right now is how grateful the family and myself are for the ongoing support and love from everyone the past few days,” Gronsky said. “I thank everyone for letting Josiah’s story into their hearts so his legacy will live beyond years.”

Viera touched many lives – at the ballpark and beyond.

Former Spikes President Jason Dambach paid tribute to Viera on social media.

“Beyond the joy that he brought anyone who had the pleasure of being able to call him a friend, Josiah Viera taught us to enjoy every minute that we have,” Dambach tweeted. “Being able to be around him every day at the ballpark was an honor and something I will cherish forever.”

Even Penn State head coach James Franklin paid tribute to Viera.

“Going to miss my friend. Thankful for the time I was able to spend with him,” Franklin Tweeted. “Our thoughts are with his grandfather, family, friends & our hearts are with Josiah!”

Details on services for Viera have not been released.

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