Dave Parker, a powerful outfielder scheduled to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame next month, has passed away, the Pittsburgh Pirates announced Saturday. He was 74.
No additional information about Parker’s death has been released. The Pirates informed fans of his passing just before their game against the New York Mets and observed a moment of silence.
Known as “the Cobra,” the 6-foot-5 Parker made his major league debut in 1973 and enjoyed a 19-season career, including 11 years with the Pirates. He earned the National League MVP award in 1978, won a World Series with Pittsburgh the following year, and later claimed another championship in 1989 with the Oakland Athletics.
“All of us who grew up in the ‘70s remember how special Dave was,” Pirates owner Bob Nutting said in a statement. “He had a larger-than-life personality, and his passing leaves a profound void for everyone who knew him. Our thoughts are with his wife, Kellye, and the entire family.”
