One of the best. Phenomenal 1971 season and incredible run in the early 70’s. Vida Blue, decorated Oakland A's pitcher and three-time World Series champion, dies at 73
RIP Vida Great pitcher and even better person. I had the pleasure of meeting him at a card show back in the eighties. He was the nicest and most humble guy you could ever meet. My wife, not a big baseball fan, but knew his name growing up in the Bay area in the 70's also meet him when working for a car rental agency a few years later, said he was very friendly as well. Probably the only MLB player we both met and we both thought he was an awesome person.
Sorry to hear this. R.I.P. Mr. Vida Blue. Thoughts and sympathies to your family and friends. May OUR FATHER comfort all of them at this time.
When he first came to the league he had a lot of movement on his fastball and was virtually unhittable. So some reason his fastballs got straighter later. Maybe something in his wrist or elbow? I don't know but he was never the same. Still very good but not as good as he once was.