Ken Holtzman, a former Major League Baseball pitcher, passed away at the age of 78. Known for his successful career, Holtzman played for various teams including the Chicago Cubs and the Oakland Athletics. He achieved significant milestones throughout his career, such as throwing two no-hitters for the Cubs and contributing to the Athletics’ three consecutive World Series championships in the 1970s. Holtzman had been battling heart issues and passed away after being hospitalized for three weeks.
Holtzman began his career in baseball after starring at the University of Illinois. He played as a left-handed pitcher and eventually became a two-time All-Star. Throughout his career from 1965 to 1979, Holtzman earned a record of 174-150 and a 3.49 ERA while playing for teams like the Athletics, Cubs, New York Yankees, and Baltimore Orioles. His accomplishments on the field include winning more games than the legendary Sandy Koufax.
During his time with the Cubs, Holtzman threw two no-hitters – one against Atlanta in 1969 and another against Cincinnati in 1971. His second no-hitter against Atlanta remains the most recent in MLB history to be thrown without a strikeout. Following the 1971 season, he was traded to the Oakland Athletics where he joined a formidable rotation alongside players like Vida Blue and Catfish Hunter, leading the team to three consecutive World Series victories. Holtzman also made All-Star appearances in 1972 and 1973, winning a career-high of 21 games in the latter year.
In 1976, Holtzman was traded to the Baltimore Orioles along with Reggie Jackson, and later that year, he was traded to the New York Yankees. He earned another championship ring with the Yankees in 1977, although he did not participate in the playoffs. Holtzman was then traded back to the Cubs during the 1978 season. The Cubs expressed their condolences for his passing, stating that they are deeply saddened by the news and sending their thoughts to Holtzman’s family and friends during this difficult time. Holtzman’s impact on the game of baseball and his contributions to the teams he played for will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
