It is never easy to talk about a legend passing away. Many of us might not have seen them on the diamond, but when you win a championship with a team, you will become a crucial part of that team’s history. And one such New York Yankees legend has left us today.

The Seattle Mariners reported saying, “We’re saddened by the loss of former… pitcher Ken Clay. We send our thoughts and condolences to his loved ones.”

Ken Clay died at 71 in Lynchburg, Virginia, due to heart and kidney issues, as confirmed by Dr. Jim Warren from Centra Heart and Vascular Institute. he spent 5 season in the majors, appearing in 111 games. He also had 36 career starts, finishing 10-24 with 3 saves and 4.68 ERA.

Despite these numbers, his time with the Yankees will always be remembered.

With the Bronx, he appeared in 3 World Series games in 1977 and 1978. In 1978, he pitched in the series opener and gave up a 3-run homer to Davey Lopes against the Los Angeles Dodgers. But his strongest moment came during the 1978 ALCS against the Royals. He pitched 3.2 innings, got out of a bases-loaded jam, and secured a 7-1 save.

Beyond the Yankees’ success, he also played for the Mariners and the Rangers before being released in 1982. Just to show the value he brought, he was used in a trade for Gaylord Perry, a Cy Young winner. Owner George Steinbrenner even called him morning glory.

All this not only makes him an integral part of Yankees history, but an important part of baseball history.