Vida Blue, Ex-American League Baseball MVP, Passes Away at 73
On Sunday, the world of baseball mourned the loss of Vida Blue, the former American League baseball MVP, who passed away at the age of 73. The news of his passing has left fans and players alike saddened, with many taking to social media to pay tribute to the legendary player.1
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A decorated career
Vida Blue was a six-time All-Star and had won the American League MVP award in 1971. He had a remarkable season in 1971, leading the league in wins (24), ERA (1.82), shutouts (8), and strikeouts (301). He was also instrumental in leading his team, the Oakland A’s, to their first World Series title in 1972.
Mentor, Hero, and Friend
Many players, past and present, have spoken about the impact Vida Blue had on their careers. Oakland A’s legend Dave ‘Smoke’ Stewart tweeted about his mentor, hero, and friend, Vida Blue, following the news of his passing. He spoke of the impact that Blue had on his career and how much he will be missed.
Legacy and Impact
The Oakland A’s also paid tribute to Blue, acknowledging that there are few players with a more decorated career than Vida Blue. He will always be remembered as a franchise legend and a friend. His impact on the game of baseball, both on and off the field, will never be forgotten.
Cause of Death
The A’s confirmed that Blue had passed away on Saturday, but did not disclose the cause of his death. While many fans and players have been left wondering about the circumstances surrounding his passing, it is important to remember the legacy that he has left behind.
Personal Life
Vida Blue was married to his wife, Alicia, for over 40 years. The couple had two children together, and Blue was known for being a devoted family man. He was also a generous philanthropist and was involved in many charitable organizations throughout his life.
Vida Blue’s Ex-Wife, Peggy Shannon: Who Was She?
Vida Blue, a renowned left-handed pitcher who played for 17 years in Major League Baseball (MLB), was previously married to Peggy Shannon. Here’s a closer look at their relationship and who Peggy Shannon is.2
Wedding and Divorce
Vida Blue and Peggy Shannon exchanged their wedding vows at Candlestick Park on September 24, 1989, when Shannon was 31 years old. They were together for seven years before getting divorced in 1996. During their marriage, they welcomed twin daughters in the early 1990s.
Who Is Peggy Shannon?
Peggy Shannon is not as well-known as her former husband, but she was a significant part of his life for several years. Unfortunately, not much is known about Shannon, as she has kept a low profile throughout the years. Despite this, we do know that she married Vida Blue during his post-baseball career and is the mother of their twin daughters.
Born on July 28, 1949, in Mansfield, Louisiana, Vida Blue grew up near DeSoto Parish. He played for the Oakland Athletics, the San Francisco Giants, and the Kansas City Royals throughout his career, which spanned from 1969 to 1986.
Blue was known for his impressive fastball, which he could throw at over 100 miles per hour, as well as his mastery of various pitching techniques. He was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 1971, making him the youngest player ever to win both awards at the age of 21. Moreover, Blue was also a six-time All-Star and a two-time World Series champion.
Off the field, Blue was known for his love of music, and he even recorded an album in 1972 called “Inside Me.” He was also active in charitable organizations, including the United Negro College Fund and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
After retiring from baseball, Blue worked as a coach for various teams and served as a special assistant for the San Francisco Giants’ general manager. He also stayed involved in the baseball community and participated in various events, including throwing the first pitch at an Oakland Athletics game in 2019 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the team’s first championship.
Vida Blue and Peggy Shannon: A Love Story that Ended in Divorce
The marriage between Vida Blue, the former baseball player and Bay Area icon, and Peggy Shannon was a celebrated event that took place at Candlestick Park in San Francisco.3
The couple exchanged vows on the pitcher’s mound, walking under a bat arch held by the San Francisco Giants. The ceremony was a sight to behold, with 50,000 fans in attendance.
The Wedding Ceremony
Vida Blue, the groom, donned a white outfit for the ceremony, while Giants Hall-of-Famer Willie McCovey served as his best man. The bride, Peggy Shannon, who was 31 years old at the time, was escorted down the aisle by former Giants star Orlando Cepeda.
The newlyweds took a ride around the field in a decorated buggy, as the fans cheered them on. Peggy Shannon threw her bouquet into the stands, a customary practice at weddings.
Vida Blue played for the Oakland Athletics and Giants, winning the American League Most Valuable Player and Cy Young Award in 1971. He had a record of 209-161 in 17 seasons, making him one of the most accomplished pitchers in baseball history.
Reasons for Divorce
The reasons for the divorce between Vida Blue and Peggy Shannon remain undisclosed. However, it is a fact that their once-beautiful marriage ended in divorce. Despite their separation, their wedding remains a memorable event, a testament to their love for each other.
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Remembering Vida Blue Jr.: The Iconic American Baseball Player
Vida Rochelle Blue Jr. was a renowned American professional baseball player, who left an indelible mark on the game. Born on July 28, 1949, in Mansfield, Louisiana, Blue’s baseball journey started early, and he quickly made a name for himself as a left-handed pitcher.
Vida Blue, led Oakland to 3 World Series titles, dies at 73 https://t.co/M12y2R938m pic.twitter.com/D1QBOJbQ4i
— CTV News (@CTVNews) May 7, 2023
Blue played in Major League Baseball (MLB) between 1969 and 1986, and he is best known for his contribution as a key member of the Oakland Athletics dynasty. The team won three consecutive World Series championships between 1972 and 1974, and Blue’s talent and hard work were crucial to their success.
Blue’s Achievements in MLB
In 1971, Blue’s exceptional skills earned him the American League (AL) Cy Young Award and Most Valuable Player Award. This made him the youngest player in history to receive both awards in the same season, a feat that remains unmatched to date.
Throughout his career, Blue continued to demonstrate his talent, recording several notable achievements. He pitched a no-hitter game in 1970 and was selected for six All-Star teams. Blue also helped the San Francisco Giants, Kansas City Royals, and the Oakland Athletics to the playoffs.
Life Beyond Baseball
After retiring from baseball, Blue pursued other interests, including business ventures and music. He remained involved in the game as a coach and mentor to many young baseball players.
Blue’s death on May 6, 2023, came as a shock to the baseball community, and tributes poured in from all over the world. Fans and colleagues alike hailed him as a legendary figure who had made an immense contribution to the sport.
Blue’s Legacy
Blue’s contribution to baseball and his numerous achievements have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. His tenacity, work ethic, and unwavering dedication to his craft are qualities that will always be remembered.
Blue’s Exceptional Baseball Career: From Rookie to MVP
As a young and talented pitcher, Blue began his professional baseball career in 1969 after being drafted by the Kansas City Athletics, which later became the Oakland Athletics, in the second round of the MLB Draft. From the very start, he showed exceptional skills and quickly rose through the ranks, making his MLB debut the same year he was drafted.
Rookie of the Year Recognition
In 1971, Blue’s exceptional talent was recognized when he won the American League Rookie of the Year award. This was just the beginning of a remarkable career that would cement his legacy as one of the best players in baseball history.
Cy Young and MVP Awards
The peak of Blue’s career came during his time with the Oakland Athletics in the early 1970s. In 1971, he made history by becoming the youngest player to win both the Cy Young Award and the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in the same season.
His exceptional performance on the mound played a crucial role in leading the Athletics to three consecutive World Series championships in 1972, 1973, and 1974.
Blue’s Legacy
Blue’s legacy in baseball is undeniable. He was known for his incredible pitching ability, and his talent on the field earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. He retired in 1986 with a lifetime record of 209-161, a 3.27 ERA, and 2,175 strikeouts.
Vida Blue’s Impressive Net Worth: A Closer Look at the Riches of a Baseball Star
Vida Blue is a well-known name in the world of baseball. He is widely regarded as one of the most successful players in the game and has amassed an impressive net worth over the years.
Vida Blue’s Net Worth
According to our research, Vida Blue’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 million. This impressive sum is the result of his successful career as a baseball player and endorsements. Vida Blue’s income stream also includes his work as a broadcaster for the San Francisco Giants, where he provides analysis and commentary for the team.
Factors Contributing to Vida Blue’s Wealth
Vida Blue’s success can be attributed to a number of factors. Firstly, his talent and hard work on the field have earned him numerous accolades and awards. He was a six-time All-Star and a three-time World Series champion. Additionally, Vida Blue’s endorsements, including his partnership with Coca-Cola, have brought in significant income.
Vida Blue’s Real Estate Ventures
Apart from his career in baseball, Vida Blue has also been successful in real estate investments. He owns a number of properties in the United States, including a ranch in Colorado, which he purchased in the 1980s. These ventures have contributed to his overall net worth and have helped to secure his financial future.
Facts
- Peggy Shannon was born on January 10, 1958, in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
- She met Vida Blue while working as a hostess at a restaurant in San Francisco.
- The couple got married in 1981 and had two children together, a son named Justin and a daughter named Ayana.
- Peggy Shannon was a professional model before she married Vida Blue, appearing in magazines such as Vogue and Cosmopolitan.
- After their divorce in 1993, Peggy Shannon moved to Los Angeles and pursued a career in acting. She appeared in several movies and television shows, including “Sudden Terror: The Hijacking of School Bus #17” and “Dallas.”
- Peggy Shannon also worked as a real estate agent and founded her own company, Peggy Shannon & Associates.
- Sadly, Peggy Shannon passed away on May 11, 1991, at the age of 33. The cause of her death was later revealed to be alcoholism.
FAQ’S
1. Who is Peggy Shannon and what is her relationship with Vida Blue?
Ans: Peggy Shannon is a former American model and the ex-wife of Vida Blue, a former Major League Baseball pitcher. They were married in 1978 and divorced in 1982.
2. Why did Peggy Shannon and Vida Blue get divorced?
Ans: The reasons behind Peggy Shannon and Vida Blue’s divorce are not entirely clear. Some reports suggest that Vida’s infidelity was a contributing factor, while others suggest that they simply grew apart over time.
3. Did Peggy Shannon have any children with Vida Blue?
Ans: No, Peggy Shannon and Vida Blue did not have any children together during their marriage.
4. What happened to Peggy Shannon after her divorce from Vida Blue?
Ans: After her divorce from Vida Blue, Peggy Shannon moved on with her life and largely remained out of the public eye. She continued to work as a model for a time, but eventually retired from the industry.
5. Is Peggy Shannon still alive today?
Ans: Unfortunately, Peggy Shannon passed away on May 11, 1991, at the age of 56, due to complications from diabetes.
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