Cuban-born MLB pitcher Luis Tiant, otherwise known as "El Tiant," played 19 seasons in the Major Leagues (1964-1982), and had an illustrious career on the mound, earning three All-Star appearances.
That is, Tiant was destined for greatness, as he was the son of Luis Tiant Sr., who was a Negro League pitcher for the New York Cubans.
Luis Tiant Sr. (New York Cubans)
Tiant Jr. began his career with the Cleveland Indians (1964-69) and got off to a great start, as he had a 2.84 ERA and 1.14 WHIP throughout his first six seasons.
Then in 1970, he went 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 ended his career playing for the New York Yankees (1979-80), Pittsburgh Pirates (1981), and California Angles (1982).
Notably, he reached the height of his notoriety while playing for the Red Sox, as Tiant went on an incredible run during the 1975 season, where he finished the regular season pitching three complete-game wins (two shutouts). This propelled the Red Sox to the playoffs, making a run to the '75 World Series, where they ultimately came up short, losing in seven games to Pete Rose and the Cincinnati Reds.
Former Red Sox center fielder Fred Lynn paid tribute to his former teammate on X (Twitter).
Today is a very sad day. My friend and teammate , Luis Tiant, passed away. A Big game pitcher, a funny genuine guy who loved his family and baseball. I miss him already….RIP my friend. pic.twitter.com/9jFODk2Che
— Fred Lynn (@19fredlynn) October 8, 2024
Tiant had a career 229-172 record, 3.30 ERA, in addition to throwing 2,416 strikeouts (48th all-time) across a near two decades spent in the MLB.
Related: MLB Legend Pete Rose Dead At 83
