Hall of Fame Outfielder Dave Parker, Known as ‘The Cobra,’ Passes Away at Age 74

PITTSBURGH — Dave Parker, the renowned outfielder known for his powerful hitting, has passed away at the age of 74, the Pittsburgh Pirates announced on Saturday. Parker was set to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame next month.

Details surrounding his death have not been disclosed. The Pirates shared the news with fans just before their game against the New York Mets and held a moment of silence in his memory.

Parker, famously nicknamed “the Cobra,” debuted in Major League Baseball in 1973 and enjoyed a successful 19-season career, with 11 seasons spent with the Pirates. He earned the National League MVP award in 1978 and was a key player in Pittsburgh’s World Series victory in 1979, later winning another championship in 1989 with the Oakland Athletics.

Pirates owner Bob Nutting expressed his condolences, acknowledging Parker’s impactful character and the void left by his passing. Throughout his career, Parker achieved incredible milestones, winning NL batting titles in 1977 and 1978, and retiring with a commendable .290 batting average, alongside 339 home runs and 1,493 RBIs.

He also played for teams such as Cincinnati, Milwaukee, California Angels, and Toronto. Elected to the Hall of Fame by a special committee in December, Parker’s induction ceremony is scheduled for July 27 in Cooperstown, New York.

Born on June 9, 1951, in Grenada, Mississippi, Parker was a standout athlete in high school sports in Cincinnati. After his time with the Pirates, he returned to his roots, playing four seasons for the Reds and leading the league in RBIs in 1985.

His legacy will endure, with tributes pouring in from fans and former teammates alike, celebrating his remarkable contributions to baseball. Parker was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2012 but had recently experienced the joy of being honored by baseball with his Hall of Fame selection.

As statements from colleagues and baseball officials indicate, he will be remembered fondly for his talents and leadership on and off the field.