#Vida May 13

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For today’s 30-Day Baseball Coach4aday Challenge post I am reporting on VIDA Blue.

Vida Rochelle Blue Jr. died on May 6, 2023. In 1971 there may not have been a bigger MLB star then this Cy Young and American League Most Valuable Player. He was a dominant left-handed pitcher that would appear in the World Series 3 consecutive seasons for the Oakland A’s (1972-73-74).

FAQ’s about Vida Blue

Vida Blue is a former American professional baseball player who played in the Major Leagues for 17 seasons, from 1969 to 1986. Here are five interesting facts about him:

1. He was a three-time All-Star and three-time World Series Champion.
2. Vida was known for his exceptional speed and athleticism.
3. Not only was he a pitcher but a switch-hitter and a versatile player who played multiple positions in addition to pitching. He even played in the outfield for the Kansas City Royals during the 1982 season. Was the last switch hitter to win the American League MVP.
4. Folk lore has it that Blue was named after a popular brand of laundry detergent, “Vida Blue,” which was marketed by Procter & Gamble in the 1950s. His mother, who was a fan of the product, thought the name sounded unique and memorable. Research on that brand turned up empty.
5. Was one of the only baseball players to wear his first name on the back of his uniform rather than his last.