Written By Oakland Athletics legend Vida Blue, who pitched his way to three World Series titles and six All-Star appearances during his 17-year career in Major League Baseball, has passed away at the age of 73. Blue’s passing was confirmed by his former team on May 13, 2023, and was met with an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow players.
Blue’s impact on the game of baseball cannot be overstated. He burst onto the scene as a rookie in 1969, when he won both the American League Cy Young and MVP awards, becoming the youngest player ever to win either award at the age of 21. He went on to have a stellar career, pitching for the Athletics, San Francisco Giants, and Kansas City Royals, among other teams.
Throughout his career, Blue was known for his electrifying fastball and his ability to strike out opposing batters with ease. He finished his career with 2,251 strikeouts, a 3.27 ERA, and 209 wins. He was a fierce competitor on the field, but also known for his affable personality off the field.
Blue was born in Mansfield, Louisiana, in 1949. He grew up playing baseball with his brothers, and was eventually scouted by the Athletics’ legendary owner, Charlie Finley. Finley signed Blue to a contract in 1967, and he quickly rose through the minor league ranks.
Blue made his major league debut in 1969, and immediately made an impact. He finished the season with a 17-3 record, a 1.82 ERA, and 301 strikeouts, leading the league in all three categories. He also helped lead the Athletics to their first World Series championship since 1930.
Blue’s performance in 1969 was nothing short of remarkable. He won his first eight starts of the season, and struck out 10 or more batters in nine consecutive games, setting a new major league record. He was named the American League’s Rookie of the Year, Cy Young Award winner, and MVP.
Blue’s success continued throughout the 1970s, as he helped lead the Athletics to five consecutive division titles and three World Series championships. He was a six-time All-Star during this period, and won 20 or more games in a season twice.
Blue was traded to the Giants in 1978, and continued to pitch at a high level for several more years. He was traded to the Royals in 1982, and helped lead them to the World Series that year. He retired after the 1986 season.
After retiring from baseball, Blue worked as a coach and broadcaster. He was also involved in various charitable endeavors, including the Vida Blue Foundation, which he founded in 1989 to help underprivileged children in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Blue’s impact on the game of baseball will not be forgotten. He was a dominant pitcher in his prime, and a beloved figure in the sport. He will be deeply missed by fans, friends, and family alike.
