MLB pitcher Rudy May, who pitched 16 seasons in the Majors, has passed away at the age of 80.
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The Yankees organization is saddened to learn of the passing of former pitcher Rudy May. We extend our deepest condolences to Rudy's family and friends at this time. pic.twitter.com/V0ra8hV4IN
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) October 25, 2024
May started his illustrious career with the California Angels (1965; 1969-74) before being signed by the New York Yankees (1974-76; 1980-83). He also played for the Baltimore Orioles (1976-77) and Montreal Expos (1978-79).
What made May special was his adaptability as a pitcher, as he was used as both a starting pitcher and reliever for most of his career.
To note, May made relief appearances in all but one of his seasons in the MLB. And when comparing him to other pitchers with less than 300 starts, he threw the eighth most shutouts of the 1970s (22).
We remember Rudy May - @Angels 1965, 1969-74; @Yankees 1974-76, 1980-83; @Orioles 1976-77; Expos 1978-79. Compiled 152-156, 4.94 career in 16 @MLB seasons. Led AL in ERA in 1980 (2.46 with #Yankees). Pitched in 3 games in '81 #Dodgers-Yankees World Series. #RestInPeace pic.twitter.com/8T1snO2c2d
— Baseball Digest (@BaseballDigest) October 25, 2024
Throughout his career, May accumulated 152 wins and has 24 career shoutouts.
Notably, his best season came in the 1980 season, when he led the league in ERA (2.46) and WHIP (1.04).
Not enough people talk about Rudy May
• 152 Wins, 1980 ERA & WHIP leader
• 360 GS, 87 CG, 24 SHO, 2622.0 IP
• 2.46 ERA and 1.044 WHIP in 1980
• 160 ERA+ in both 1979 and 1980
• 2.84 ERA, 0.947 WHIP in the WS
• Crazy story: originally signed by Minnesota Twins scout and… pic.twitter.com/NlVXakJJ5c— Not Gaetti (@notgaetti) October 25, 2024
The baseball world is also mourning the loss of Los Angeles Dodgers pitching legend Fernando Valenzuela this week. Notably, Valenzuela and May pitched against each other in Game 3 of the 1981 World Series.
In 1981, Fernando Valenzuela was just 20 years old and looking toward a bright baseball career.
At the same time, Rudy May was 36 and on the back end of a baseball career that had seen him go from young prospect to trusted veteran. pic.twitter.com/cVrvScyyNw— Zinn Beck (@ZBDigitalibrary) October 24, 2024
Valenzuela threw a complete game in the Dodgers' World Series victory, giving up nine hits and four earned runs in nine innings, to go with six strikeouts. While May, came in relief and pitched three innings, giving up two hits and 0 ER, with two strikeouts.
Watch: Game 3 of 1981 World Series
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has confirmed that prior to Game 1 of the 2024 World Series between the Dodgers and Yankees, they will pay tribute to both Rudy May's and Fernando Valenzuela's memory.
