Ken Clay, a two-time World Series champion with the New York Yankees, has died at 71.
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Clay passed away Thursday at his home in Virginia due to heart and kidney issues, according to a team official, via WHAS11.
He was part of something big early.
Clay debuted in 1977 and quickly found himself on a Yankees team that won back-to-back titles. He appeared in both World Series runs against the Los Angeles Dodgers, including a brief outing in 1978.
BREAKING: Ken Clay, who won World Series championships with the New York Yankees in 1977-78 to highlight his five-year major league career, has died at the age of 71.
R.I.P. Ken Clay ❤️🙏 pic.twitter.com/Iu4fMNy2ZA
— Strikeout Buzz (@StrikeoutBuzzX) March 30, 2026
His best moment came that postseason.
In Game 1 of the 1978 ALCS, Clay entered with the bases loaded and one out, protecting a lead. He delivered, tossing 3 2/3 scoreless innings to secure the save in a 7-1 win.
That was the high point.
Clay spent five seasons in the majors, mostly as a reliever, finishing with a 10-24 record and a 4.68 ERA across 111 appearances. He later had stints with the Rangers and Mariners before his playing career ended in the early 1980s.
His time in New York wasn't without friction.
During a tough 1979 season, owner George Steinbrenner famously labeled him a "morning glory," questioning his ability to translate practice success into game results.
Life after baseball brought more challenges. Clay faced multiple legal issues over the years tied to theft and fraud, including jail time and restitution orders.
Still, his place in Yankees history is secure.
He was part of a championship era, and for a stretch, he delivered when it mattered most.
