Famed Cuban, MLB pitcher Luis Tiant dies at 83

 Renowned Cuban baseball player Luis Tiant passed away on Tuesday at his home in Maine, as reported by the Boston Red Sox. He was 83 years old.

Known by the nickname “El Tiante” and famous for his distinctive handlebar mustache, the right-handed pitcher had a remarkable 19-season MLB career, playing for six teams.

Tiant’s career included stints with the Cleveland Indians, Minnesota Twins, Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and Pittsburgh Pirates, culminating with the California Angels.

His unique pitching style featured a distinctive wind-up, where he would twist at the hip to turn his entire body away from home plate, showcasing his famous No. 23 jersey to batters before delivering a near-sidearm pitch.

John Henry, principal owner of the Boston Red Sox, spoke fondly of Tiant, stating, “Luis had the kind of unforgettable presence that made you feel like you were part of his world. He was a pitcher with incredible talent, accomplishing so much with a style uniquely his own. But what truly set Luis apart was his zest for life, embracing every moment with an infectious spirit, even in the face of his many challenges. He channeled everything into his love for the game and the people around him. He was magnetic, with a smile that could light up Fenway Park. Luis was truly one-of-a-kind, and all of us at the Red Sox will miss him.”

The Marianao-born pitcher twice led the American League in ERA and achieved a total of 229 wins during his career, according to MLB statistics. Tiant was inducted into the Red Sox Hall of Fame in 1997 and earned All-Star honors three times.

Former teammate and nine-time All-Star Fred Lynn shared his grief on social media, saying, “Today is a very sad day. My friend and teammate, Luis Tiant, passed away. A big-game pitcher, a funny, genuine guy who loved his family and baseball. I miss him already….RIP my friend.”