The Cleveland Guardians are taking a moment amidst their postseason run, to celebrate the life of an outstanding Major League Baseball pitcher. Former MLB star Sam McDowell has passed away at the age of 84, the team announced. He was a six-time MLB All-Star.
“The six-time All-Star spent 11 of his 15 MLB seasons in Cleveland, and in 2006 he was inducted into Cleveland’s hall of fame,” the team said in a social media post on X, formerly Twitter. “Our thoughts go out to his family and friends during this time.”
McDowell pitched in Cleveland when the team was known as the Indians. After leaving Cleveland in 1971, he pitched with the Pittsburgh Pirates, New York Yankees and San Francisco Giants. His final MLB appearance was with the Pirates in 1975.
McDowell was from Pittsburgh. He led the American League in strikeouts five times in his long career. His first season in baseball was 1961. He pitched for the Indians from 1961-1971.
McDowell was very open after his playing days were over about his struggle with substance abuse. He admitted he was addicted to alcohol.
“I truly believe with all my heart, the greatest thing that ever happened to me was that I was an alcoholic and found out about it,” McDowell said to the New York Post. “Had I never known and had not been thrown out of baseball, I would not have the great life I have now. I would not have the education. I would not have learned how to live and love. Every day is a kick.”
The Guardians made the announcement ahead of Game 3 of their American League Division Series with the Chicago White Sox. Cleveland trails the series, 2-0.