R.I.P.: Longtime L-A Sports Radio Host Joe McDonnell

Joe McDonnell KNX 2010

Joe McDonnell, a Los Angeles sports commentator and talk show host who was known for his once enormous size and magnetic personality, has died, the Angels confirmed.

He was 58, according to The LA Times.

McDonnell died Friday afternoon at Good Samaritan Hospital in Los Angeles, according to family friend and sports publicist Steve Brener. The cause has not been determined.

McDonnell, who at one time weighed 740 pounds before undergoing gastric-bypass surgery, was known throughout the Los Angeles sports-talk radio scene since the 1980s. His nicknames included Big Joe and the Big Nasty.

McDonnell was admired by fans and teams alike.

"For more than 35 years, Joe has been a regular at Lakers games and press events," Los Angeles Lakers President Jeanie Buss said in a statement. "Known for his quick wit and strong opinions, Joe’s love of and support of the Lakers has always been appreciated. Over all these years, our players, coaches and staff have enjoyed working with and knowing Joe. He will be sorely missed.”

Said Angels Manager Mike Scioscia: "I've known him since I first came up with the Dodgers. He's a good friend who will be missed. It's sad."

McDonnell was born Aug. 30, 1956, in Upper Darby, Pa., and began his radio career in 1975 at age 19 for KGIL.