Legendary Pirates Pitcher Bob Friend Dies

PITTSBURGH, PA - Bob Friend, one of the greatest pitchers in Pittsburgh Pirates history, died unexpectedly Sunday. He was 88.

"It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we confirm the passing of a beloved member of the Pirates family, Bob Friend,” Pirates president Frank Coonelly said in a statement released by the club. "Bob was an outstanding baseball man, and an even better person.

"Our thoughts, prayers and support go out to Bob's wife, Pat, son, Bob, and daughter, Missy, as well as the rest of the Friend family members and loved ones. Bob was truly one of the very best to ever wear the Pirates black and gold. He will be deeply missed."

Friend holds the team record for innings (3,480 1/3), starts (477) and strikeouts (1,682). He was a National League all-star on four occasions and was a key member of the 1960 World Series champions.

Friend debuted with the Pirates in 1951 and pitched for the team through 1965 before splitting his last year with the New York Yankkes and the New York Mets.

He was 197-230 with a 3.58 ERA in his career. He won 18 games with a 3.00 ERA in the 1960 championship season in which the Pirates defeated the Yankees in seven games with Bill Mazeroski's game-ending home run in Game 7.

Funeral arrangements were not immediately available.

Photo via Pittsburgh Pirates.

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