Known as “El Tiant,” the MLB pitcher Luis Tiant, who was born in Cuba, had a successful career spanning 19 seasons in the Major Leagues (1964-1982) and accumulated three All-Star appearances.
Destined for greatness, Tiant was the son of Luis Tiant Sr., a pitcher in the Negro Leagues with the New York Cubans.
His career began with the Cleveland Indians (1964-69) where he made an impressive start, posting a 2.84 ERA and 1.14 WHIP over the first six seasons.
In 1970, he moved on to play for the Minnesota Twins before joining the Boston Red Sox (1971-78) and leading them to a World Series appearance.
Ultimately, Tiant finished his career playing for the New York Yankees (1979-80), the Pittsburgh Pirates (1981), and the California Angels (1982).
During his time with the Red Sox, Tiant gained widespread recognition, particularly in the 1975 season, where he achieved an outstanding performance, finishing with three complete-game wins (including two shutouts) in the regular season. This helped propel the Red Sox to the playoffs and into the ’75 World Series, where they eventually fell short, losing in seven games to Pete Rose and the Cincinnati Reds.
Former Red Sox center fielder Fred Lynn honored his former colleague over on X (Twitter).
Today is a very sad day. My friend and teammate, Luis Tiant, has passed away. An exceptional game pitcher, a genuinely humorous individual who adored his family and baseball. I already miss him….Rest in peace, my friend. pic.twitter.com/9jFODk2Che
— Fred Lynn (@19fredlynn) October 8, 2024
Tiant’s career saw him achieve a record of 229-172, a 3.30 ERA, and 2,416 strikeouts (48th all-time) over nearly two decades in the MLB.
Image Source: Luis Tiant @ Instagram
