Dave Parker, hard-hitting Hall of Fame outfielder nicknamed 'the Cobra,' dies at 74

Published: Sunday, June 29, 2025 at 11:52 am

Baseball Legend Dave Parker Dies at 74

Pittsburgh, PA - Baseball fans are mourning the loss of Dave Parker, the celebrated outfielder known as "the Cobra," who passed away at the age of 74. The Pittsburgh Pirates announced his death, which occurred shortly before the start of their game against the New York Mets. No further details regarding the circumstances of his passing have been released.

Parker, a towering figure at 6-foot-5, enjoyed a distinguished 19-season career in Major League Baseball, with 11 of those seasons spent with the Pirates. He made his debut in 1973 and was set to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame next month. His achievements include being named the National League MVP in 1978 and winning World Series titles with the Pirates in 1979 and the Oakland Athletics in 1989.

Throughout his career, Parker showcased exceptional talent, earning two NL batting titles in 1977 and 1978. He concluded his playing days with a .290 batting average, 339 home runs, and 1,493 RBIs. He also played for the Cincinnati Reds, Milwaukee Brewers, California Angels, and Toronto Blue Jays. Parker was elected to the Hall of Fame by a special committee in December. The induction ceremony is scheduled for July 27.

Parker's impact extended beyond his on-field performance. He was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2012. His teammates and fellow players have expressed their admiration for his skill and personality.

BNN's Perspective: Dave Parker's passing is a significant loss for baseball. His career was marked by both individual excellence and team success. While his induction into the Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to his accomplishments, it is a bittersweet moment given his recent passing. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of players.

Keywords: Dave Parker, Cobra, Pittsburgh Pirates, Baseball Hall of Fame, MLB, Outfielder, NL MVP, World Series, Cincinnati Reds, Parkinson's disease, Baseball, Sports, Obituary, Death, 74

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