The baseball world is mourning the loss of Oakland Athletics legend Vida Blue, who passed away on May 3, 2023, at the age of 73. The pitcher, known for his dominant fastball and curveball, was a four-time All-Star, a Cy Young Award winner, and a key contributor to the Athletics’ championship teams in the 1970s.

Born on July 28, 1949, in Mansfield, Louisiana, Blue grew up in a small town where he was surrounded by poverty and racism. Despite the challenges, he showed an early talent for baseball, and by the time he was a teenager, he was already attracting the attention of scouts.

In 1967, Blue was drafted by the Kansas City Athletics, but it wasn’t until 1970 that he made his major league debut. That year, he went 17-15 with a 3.28 ERA, and was named the American League Rookie of the Year.

Over the next few years, Blue established himself as one of the top pitchers in the game. In 1971, he won the Cy Young Award after posting a 24-8 record with a 1.82 ERA and 301 strikeouts. He followed that up with another strong season in 1972, going 6-10 with a 2.80 ERA and 156 strikeouts in just 20 starts due to a mid-season arm injury.

In 1973, the Athletics won the first of their three consecutive World Series championships, with Blue playing a key role in the team’s success. He went 20-9 with a 3.28 ERA and 149 strikeouts, earning his second All-Star selection and finishing second in the Cy Young voting.

Blue continued to dominate on the mound over the next few seasons, earning two more All-Star selections in 1974 and 1975. However, his career hit a rough patch in 1976, as he struggled with injuries and posted a disappointing 7-12 record with a 3.90 ERA.

Despite the setback, Blue bounced back in 1977, going 18-10 with a 2.79 ERA and 209 strikeouts. He helped lead the Athletics to their third straight World Series title, and was named the Most Valuable Player of the American League Championship Series.

Blue’s career took a turn in 1978, as he was traded to the San Francisco Giants. He had a solid season with his new team, going 18-10 with a 2.79 ERA and 190 strikeouts, but the Giants missed the playoffs.

Over the next few years, Blue bounced around the league, playing for the Giants, the Kansas City Royals, and the Oakland Athletics again. He had some success, but never again reached the heights of his early career.

Blue retired in 1986 with a career record of 209-161, a 3.27 ERA, and 2,175 strikeouts. He was inducted into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 1988, and the Oakland Athletics Hall of Fame in 1991.

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Blue was known for his charismatic personality and his love of the game. He was a fan favorite wherever he played, and his contributions to the sport will not be forgotten.

In the wake of his passing, tributes have poured in from around the baseball world. Former teammates, opponents, and fans have all shared their memories of Blue, and have spoken about the impact he had on the game.

“Vida was a true legend of the game, both on and off the field,” said Billy Beane, the Athletics’ general manager. “His talent was undeniable, but it was his infectious personality and love for the game that made him truly special.