MIAMI, United States. – Luis Tiant, one of the most iconic pitchers in the history of the sport, died at age 83, according to confirmed sports journalist Francys Romero on his social network account
The baseball player had been facing health problems related to his kidneys for months.
Tiant, known for his peculiar style on the mound, earned a place in baseball history with his 229 victories in the Major Leagues. Romero described him as someone who “signified an era among Cubans in the Major Leagues and outside as well.” “He leaves with an incomparable legacy,” he said.
Born on November 23, 1940 in Marianao, HavanaTiant followed in the footsteps of his father, also a pitcher, and established himself as one of the best pitchers of his generation. His career began in the local youth leagues of Cuba before being recommended by Roberto “Beto” Ávila for the Mexico City Tigres. After a brief performance in the Cuban Professional League, he was hired by the Cleveland Indians in 1964, debuting with an impressive victory over the New York Yankees.
Several sports journalists have noted that one of Tiant’s most distinctive characteristics was his throwing. He turned his body with his back to the batter before releasing the ball, a unique style that left its mark on baseball. In addition, his Fu Manchu-style mustache and his inseparable tobacco off the field made him an unmistakable figure. This is how he described it The New Herald in February of this year.
Over the course of his career, Tiant was a four-time winner of 20 or more games in a season, and led the American League in ERA in 1968 with an astonishing 1.60 ERA. Despite injuries that disrupted his performance, Tiant recovered and continued to be dominant, especially during his time with the Boston Red Sox, where he became a key figure.
Luis Tiant’s legacy goes beyond statistics. He was an inspiration for generations of Cuban and Latino baseball players who followed in his footsteps in the Major Leagues. Although he has not been inducted into the Hall of Fame, many consider his contribution to the sport worthy of such recognition.
