Ken Holtzman, the pitcher who helped the Oakland A’s capture three straight World Series titles, was a member of the 1977 Yankees World Series squad and pitched two no-hitters with the Chicago Cubs, has died at the age of 78.
The talented lefty who pitched 15 seasons in the big leagues died on Sunday night. He had been battling heart issues and was hospitalized for three weeks, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.
Holtzman’s career spanned from 1965-79, and he recorded 174 wins and a 3.49 ERA over the course of his time between the Cubs, Athletics, Yankees and Orioles.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Cubs pitcher Ken Holtzman,” the Cubs said in a statement. “Ken was a Cub from 1965-1971 and 1978-1979. He posted a 3.76 ERA in 237 games with the club, including two no-hitters, cementing himself as one of the best left-handed pitchers in Cubs history.”
The Cubs sent their condolences to Holtzman’s family and friends.
“The two-time All-Star and three-time World Series Champion with the Green and Gold, Holtzman created lasting memories for our franchise,” the A’s said as part of a statement.
Holtzman’s career began with the Cubs where he made his debut against Willie Mays and the San Francisco Giants and became a staple in the team’s pitching stable, including making 39 starts in 1969 for Chicago, which fell short of the eventual World Series champion Mets in the World Series that year.
He was traded to the A’s in 1971 for outfielder Rick Monday, which set up Holtzman to become part of a dynasty in Oakland that won the World Series in 1972, 1973 and 1974 while earning at least one win in the Fall Classic each of those years.
He spent three years in The Bronx with the Yanks and went 12-10 during his time there, though he did not appear in a postseason game in 1976 or 1977.
Holtzman owns the distinction of winningest pitcher of Jewish heritage in MLB history, recording nine more wins than Sandy Koufax’s 165.
Credit: Source link
