Dave Parker, MLB Hall of Famer and longtime Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder, dies at age 74

Dave Parker, the longtime Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder, who was a two-time batting champion, National League MVP and member of the 1979 World Series championship team, has died at the age of 74.

The Pirates took to social media on Saturday to confirm the news.

“We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Hall of Famer Dave Parker,” the team said, describing Parker as a “legendary Pirate.” 

Parker will be enshrined in the National Baseball Hall of Fame next month. Parker was also named an inaugural member of the Pittsburgh Pirates Hall of Fame in 2022.

Nicknamed the “Cobra,” Parker played 11 of his 19 MLB seasons for the Pirates from 1973 to 1983.

“‘The Cobra’ was one of the most dominating and intimidating players to ever wear a Pirates uniform,” said Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting. “All of us who grew up in the ’70s remember how special Dave was. He was an All-Star, a Gold Glover, a batting champion, a National League MVP and a critical part of the 1979 Pirates World Series Championship team. He had a big personality and his passing has left an even bigger void with all who knew him. Our hearts go out to his wife, Kellye, and his family.”

He finished his career with a .290 batting average, 339 home runs, and 1,493 RBI while winning back-to-back batting titles in 1977 and 1978.

Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement that Parker “was a gifted all-around player whose numerous accomplishments led to his upcoming induction in Cooperstown this summer.”

 “All of us throughout the game are deeply saddened by this loss,” Manfred said. “We will remember the Cobra forever, especially as his name soon officially joins the legends of our National Pastime.  On behalf of Major League Baseball, I extend my sympathy to Dave’s family and his fans across the game.”

Parker led the National League with a .338 average, 215 hits and 44 doubles in 1977. He followed up his 1977 campaign by becoming the 1978 National League Most Valuable Player after slashing a .334 average with 30 home runs and 117 RBI.

A seven-time All-Star, Parker was also named MVP of the 1979 All-Star Game.