MLB Legend Dave Parker Passes Away at 74

Former Major League Baseball (MLB) outfielder and Pittsburgh Pirates icon Dave Parker has died at the age of 74. The Pirates made the announcement on Saturday, just prior to Parker’s scheduled induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame next month, an honor bestowed by the Classic Era Committee.

Parker had been battling Parkinson’s disease.

Debuting in the Major Leagues in 1973, Parker earned the 1978 National League MVP award, along with consecutive NL batting titles in 1977 and 1978. A crucial component of the Pirates’ 1979 World Series-winning team, the seven-time All-Star recorded a .310 batting average, 25 home runs, and 94 RBIs.

The Pirates conveyed their deepest sympathies on social media regarding the loss of Parker, a celebrated figure in their history.

“We are deeply saddened by the news of Hall of Famer Dave Parker’s passing. Parker, a Pirates legend, dedicated 11 years to the team, securing 2 batting titles, an MVP award, and a World Series Championship in 1979,” the Pirates stated on their X account.

“‘The Cobra’ was a member of the inaugural Pirates Hall of Fame class in 2022 and will be formally inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown next month,” the team further noted.

Across his 19 seasons, Parker achieved a .290 batting average, hitting 339 home runs and driving in 1,493 RBIs over 2,466 games. Recognized for his powerful throwing arm, the right fielder also received the Gold Glove award three times and the Silver Slugger award three times.

Parker, an inductee into the Pirates Hall of Fame in 2022, was slated for enshrinement into the Baseball Hall of Fame on July 27.

“It was a long time coming, making it incredibly exciting. I was eagerly anticipating being there, holding onto this speech for 15 years,” Parker had expressed.

In anticipation of the induction ceremony, Parker reflected on the challenges of playing in his era.

“The 70s demanded resilience,” Parker remarked. “To excel in the 70s, one had to be an exceptional player. I reveled in it, embracing the competition and the joy of playing.”