Former Yankees pitcher Rudy May passed away at the age of 80 on Saturday.
May had a 16-year career in Major League Baseball, spending seven of those years with the Yankees through various stints in the 70s and 80s. He also played for the California Angels, Montreal Expos, and Baltimore Orioles.
While a specific cause of death has not been provided, it has been reported that the left-handed pitcher struggled with diabetes.
Rudy May en route to a two-hitter victory over the Red Sox on August 5, 1974. New York Post
Over the span of his career, May recorded a 152-156 win-loss record, a 3.46 ERA, and a total of 1,760 strikeouts. He was part of Yankees teams that reached the American League Championship Series in 1980 and the World Series in 1981.
May’s first tenure with the Yankees began on June 15, 1974, when he was acquired from the Angels, and he remained with the team until he was traded to the Orioles exactly two years later, on June 15, 1976.
He eventually rejoined the Yankees as a free agent in the winter of 1979.
In an interview with the New York Times shortly before signing with the Yankees, May expressed great enthusiasm for returning to the team.
Rudy May’s California Angels headshot. New York Post
Rudy May being congratulated by catcher Thurman Munson after bringing the Yankees within one game of first place on September 3, 1974. Associated Press Photo
“It sounds awful good to me,” he remarked. “I always enjoyed playing in New York and was fond of playing for the Yankees. Being traded to Baltimore was unfortunate. I believe the Yankees will have a strong team next year. George Steinbrenner is ensuring that.”
May contributed to two Yankees teams that made significant playoff runs, even leading the American League in ERA during the 1980 regular season with a career-best mark of 2.46.
During his seven seasons with the Yankees, he achieved a 54-46 record along with a 3.12 ERA.
Rudy May pitching in relief during the ninth inning on June 8, 1983. New York Post
Rudy May competing against the Royals in a game on May 2, 1976. Associated Press Photo
May realized he could no longer pitch during spring training of 1984 and subsequently retired. He then served briefly as a pitching coach at Yosemite High School in California before leaving after one season, eventually taking a position as a manager at Circle K, as reported by the Fresno Bee in 1990.
He advanced to a marketing consultancy role at Circle K and later with British Petroleum.
“My wife, my grandchildren, fishing, and working in the yard: that’s my life now and what truly fulfills me,” May shared in a 2014 interview with Jeff Pearlman. “At this point, I take more pride in my fishing accomplishments than anything I achieved in baseball.”
Remembering Rudy May: Former Yankees Pitcher Passes Away at 80
Rudy May, a notable figure in Major League Baseball and a former pitcher for the New York Yankees, has recently passed away at the age of 80. His legacy in baseball, particularly during his time with the Yankees, is remembered fondly by fans and players alike. This article pays tribute to his remarkable career, contributions to the sport, and the impact he made on and off the field.
Rudy May: A Brief Biography
Born on March 28, 1943, in Durham, North Carolina, Rudy May showed an early affinity for sports, particularly baseball. He began his professional career in the minor leagues before making his MLB debut in 1965. May’s journey through the competitive world of baseball included stints with several teams, but his time with the Yankees remains the highlight of his career.
Major League Career Highlights
Rudy May had a distinguished career that spanned two decades. Below are some of the key highlights:
- MLB Debut: Made his debut with the California Angels in 1965.
- New York Yankees: Joined the Yankees in 1972 and played a pivotal role in the team’s pitching rotation.
- All-Star Appearances: Selected as an All-Star in 1974, showcasing his talent on a national stage.
- Career Stats: Accumulated a win-loss record of 122-103, with an ERA of 3.83 over his 17-year career.
Teams Rudy May Played For
| Year | Team |
|---|---|
| 1965-1967 | California Angels |
| 1968-1971 | New York Yankees |
| 1972-1976 | New York Yankees |
| 1977-1981 | Baltimore Orioles |
| 1981 | Texas Rangers |
Legacy and Impact
Rudy May’s impact on the game of baseball transcended statistics. He was known for his work ethic, resilience, and mentorship to younger players. His journey through the ups and downs of professional sports is a testament to his character and dedication. Here are some key aspects of his legacy:
Mentorship and Coaching
After retiring as a player, Rudy May transitioned into coaching, imparting his knowledge to young athletes. His approach focused on fundamentals, emphasizing the importance of discipline and hard work. Many players benefited from his wisdom and experience, which helped shape their careers.
Community Involvement
May was actively involved in the community, participating in charity events and youth baseball camps. His contributions went beyond the diamond, as he worked to inspire the next generation of baseball players.
Remembering Rudy May: Tributes from the Baseball Community
The news of Rudy May’s passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans, former teammates, and sports analysts. Here are some heartfelt remembrances:
- Teammate Reflections: Many of May’s former teammates shared stories of his kindness and competitive spirit, recalling how he always had time to help others.
- Fan Tributes: Baseball fans took to social media to express their admiration and share memories of watching him pitch for the Yankees.
- Media Coverage: Sports networks highlighted May’s contributions to the Yankees and the broader baseball community, celebrating his career and personal character.
Fun Facts About Rudy May
Rudy May’s life and career were filled with interesting anecdotes that highlight his personality and love for the game. Here are some fun facts:
- Rudy was known for his signature delivery, which combined a high leg kick with a smooth arm motion.
- He was a fan favorite, often seen chatting with supporters during warm-ups.
- May was known to collect baseball memorabilia and had a passion for sharing stories about his career with fans.
Reflecting on a Life Well-Lived
Rudy May’s legacy as a former Yankees pitcher is one of dedication, kindness, and a love for baseball. His contributions to the sport will not be forgotten, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who admired him. As fans and players remember Rudy, they celebrate not just his athletic accomplishments but also his character and commitment to the game.
First-Hand Experiences: Stories from Fans
Many fans have shared their personal experiences of watching Rudy May pitch and the impact it had on their love for baseball. Here are a few heartfelt stories:
- Watching Him Live: One fan recounted attending a Yankees game in the 1970s and being mesmerized by May’s pitching style and his ability to control the game.
- A Lesson in Sportsmanship: Another fan remembered a time when May signed autographs for young fans after a game, demonstrating his commitment to the next generation of baseball enthusiasts.
- Influence on Youth: A youth coach shared how May’s techniques and approach to pitching had inspired him to teach his team the importance of discipline and hard work.
Benefits of Remembering Sports Legends
Remembering figures like Rudy May has several benefits, both for the sport and its community:
- Inspiration: Sports legends inspire young athletes to pursue their dreams, reinforcing the idea that hard work can lead to success.
- Cultural Heritage: Celebrating the contributions of athletes helps preserve the history and culture of sports, ensuring future generations appreciate the game’s evolution.
- Community Building: Reflecting on the legacy of sports figures fosters a sense of community among fans, bringing people together to share stories and memories.
Conclusion
While Rudy May may be gone, his influence on baseball and the hearts of those who admired him will remain forever. His story serves as a reminder of the impact that sports figures can have on individuals and communities alike. As we look back on May’s life and career, we honor not just a talented pitcher but a beloved member of the baseball family.
