Elroy Face, Pirates Legend and 1960 World Series Hero, Dies at 97
PITTSBURGH, Pa. — Elroy Face, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ celebrated All-Star relief pitcher and a key figure in the team’s unforgettable 1960 World Series victory, died on Thursday at the age of 97. Face, who was just days away from his 98th birthday, passed away at an independent senior living facility in North Versailles, Pennsylvania, according to team officials. The Pirates announced the news after being informed by Face’s son, Elroy Jr.
Face’s legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of baseball history, particularly for his pioneering role in shaping the modern relief pitcher’s position. Nicknamed the “Baron of the Bullpen,” Face was instrumental in the Pirates’ stunning upset over the New York Yankees in the 1960 World Series, a championship remembered for Bill Mazeroski’s dramatic walk-off home run.
“It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we mourn the passing of Pirates Hall of Famer Elroy Face, a beloved member of the Pirates family,” said Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting in a heartfelt statement. “Elroy was a pioneer of the modern relief pitcher — the ‘Baron of the Bullpen’ — and he played a critical role in our 1960 World Series championship.”
Over a 16-year Major League Baseball career, Face appeared in 848 games, compiling a record of 104 wins and 95 losses with an earned run average (ERA) of 3.48. His mastery out of the bullpen helped redefine the relief pitcher’s importance during an era when starters typically pitched complete games.
Face’s impact extended beyond his playing days. He was inducted into the Pittsburgh Pirates Hall of Fame in 2023, a recognition of his enduring contributions to the franchise and the sport. Fans and teammates alike remember him for his competitive spirit and steady presence during some of baseball’s most dramatic moments.
His death marks the passing of one of baseball’s last direct links to the 1960 World Series, a contest that remains a defining chapter in Major League Baseball history. The Pirates’ victory that year ended a 35-year championship drought and remains one of the most celebrated moments in the sport.
For those wishing to honor Face’s memory or learn more about the history of the Pirates and their championship legacy, the team’s official site offers extensive resources. Additionally, the Major League Baseball website provides detailed archives of his career and the 1960 World Series.
Elroy Face’s passing is a solemn reminder of baseball’s rich history and the players who helped shape the game into America’s pastime. The Pirates organization and fans nationwide mourn the loss of a true legend whose contributions will not be forgotten.
For more on baseball history and player legacies, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and the National Park Service’s baseball heritage resources offer invaluable insights. Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Sport and Physical Education continues to promote the significance of sports figures like Face in American culture.
Elroy Face is survived by his family and a legion of fans who will remember him not only for his skill on the mound but for his role in one of baseball’s most iconic triumphs.
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