Ex-MLB pitcher Dick Drago dead at 78

Dick Drago, a former pitcher who played 13 years among five teams in the major leagues, has died. He was 78.

The Boston Red Sox confirmed Drago’s death on X on Saturday.

“We’re saddened by the passing of Dick Drago, a staple of the 70’s Red Sox pitching staff and a beloved teammate,” the team wrote. “We extend our sympathies to the Drago family.”

“We mourn the passing of Dick Drago, a member of the inaugural 1969 Royals, and send our condolences to his family and loved ones,” the Kansas City Royals added on X.

Drago died in Florida from complications from surgery, the Boston Globe reported.

He made his major league debut with the Royals in 1969 and played until 1981. He appeared in games for the California Angels, Baltimore Orioles and Seattle Mariners as well.

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Drago earned American League Cy Young Award votes in the 1971 season. He was 17-11 with a 2.98 ERA in 35 games. He had 15 complete games, four shutouts and 109 strikeouts that season. Oakland Athletics pitcher Vida Blue won the honor that year as well as the American League MVP award.

He started to move to the bullpen during his first stint with the Red Sox in 1974.

Drago made his lone World Series appearance in 1975 against the Cincinnati Reds. He pitched in Game 6 – considered to be the greatest game ever played. He pitched three innings, allowing one hit and striking out one. The Red Sox won Game 6 in 12 innings but lost in Game 7.

He finished his career after the 1981 season with the Mariners. He finished with 987 strikeouts and a 3.62 ERA in 519 appearances.