Record-setting Pirates P Friend dies at 88

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[February 04, 2019]    Four-time All-Star Bob Friend, the Pittsburgh Pirates' all-time leader in innings pitched, passed away on Sunday at 88.

 

A right-hander from Purdue University, Friend debuted at age 20 with Pittsburgh in 1951 and remained with the team for 15 seasons and 3,480 1/3 innings.

According to the Pirates, Friend died at his home in Pittsburgh.

He led the National League in ERA (2.83) in 1955 and wins (22) in 1958, and won a World Series with the Pirates in 1960.

Nicknamed "The Warrior" for his durability, Friend also ranks first in Pittsburgh history in starts (477) and strikeouts (1,682) and ranks fourth in wins (191).

He split his final season in 1966 with the New York Yankees and Mets, retiring with 197 wins and a 3.58 career ERA.

Friend is survived by his wife Pat, son Bob and daughter Missy.

--Field Level Media

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