Tough News – Luis Tiant, a legendary Cuban pitcher, was celebrated as the winningest Cuban-born pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB) history, with a career record of 229 wins and 172 losses over 19 seasons. Known for his distinctive and dramatic windup, which involved turning his back to the batter, Tiant’s unique delivery often baffled hitters. He was particularly instrumental in the Boston Red Sox’s run to the 1975 World Series, where he showcased his clutch performance by pitching a five-hit shutout in Game 1 and throwing 173 pitches in a thrilling Game 4 victory.
Beyond his impressive statistics, Tiant made a remarkable comeback in 1972 after struggling with injuries, earning the Comeback Player of the Year award with a 1.91 ERA. His cultural impact extended beyond the diamond; his charismatic personality and signature cigar made him a fan favorite and a memorable figure in baseball history. Tiant’s legacy was marked not only by his talent on the field but also by his enduring influence on the sport and its fans. He passed away today October 8, 2024, leaving behind a rich legacy of baseball and cigars that will be remembered by purists for generations to come.
Note: The title picture captures a moment while in NORFOLK, Va. (Jun. 13, 2007) L.C. Greenwood, a former Pittsburgh Steeler, and Luis Tiant, a former Boston Red Sox player, stand on the brow of USS Albany (SSN 753) with Chief of the Boat, Michael Nichols, before going below decks to tour Albany. The tour was part of Summerfest 2007, hosted by Naval Station Norfolk’s Morale Welfare and Recreation. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Christina M. Shaw File# 070613-N-5268S-003.