Heartbreaking news has rocked the MLB world. One of its fiercest, most electrifying legends known for his power, presence and for his and unforgettable nickname, has passed away at the age of 74.

Dave Parker, whom the fans knew as “The Cobra” affectionately, had a larger-than-life personality. And, while the official cause of his death has not been disclosed, he faced several health issues. He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2012 and disclosed it in 2013. Over the years, he has been a towering presence both on and off the field, and his death leaves a legacy that spans over two decades, two World Series titles, and several beautiful memories.

The Pittsburgh Pirates, a team with whom Parker forged his Hall of Fame legacy, shared their heartbreak. On X, they said, “We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Hall of Famer Dave Parker.” But that was not all.

Dave Parker was also one of the first inductees into the Pirates Hall of Fame in 2022 and was set to be enshrined in Cooperstown next month. But his influence is not just limited to Pittsburgh. He made his way to Cincinnati and even played for the Reds between the years of 1984 and 1987. For a kid who grew up in the city’s west end and learned to play baseball in the Crosley Field parking lot, playing in a Cincinnati Reds uniform was more like destiny, less like homecoming.

​MLB also echoed the sentiment and released a tribute that showcased how much Parker meant to the baseball world. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of 2025 Hall of Fame electee Dave Parker. ‘The Cobra’ was one of the fiercest hitters of his generation… A lifetime. 290 hitter with 339 home runs and 1,493 RBI in a 19-year career… a 7-time All-Star with a cannon for an arm, 3 Gold Gloves, and 3 Silver Sluggers.”

Now, over the last few years, Parker had braved through Parkinson’s disease. But even though the illness was not simple to navigate, his presence has remained commanding. His Hall of Fame induction, voted in by the Classic Baseball Era committee last December, was a long-awaited moment. The induction is scheduled for July 27, and now that celebration will be more of a tribute than anything else.

The story behind MLB legend ‘Cobra’ revealed

Dave Parker has had a MLB career defined by power, swagger, and some unforgettable moments. He stood tall, well, both literally and figuratively too. But how he got his nickname ‘The Cobra’ is a big question mark. It turns out that Pirates broadcaster Bob Prince was the one who called him the Cobra back in the early 1970s. The name was inspired by Parker’s athleticism and game-changing theatrics. And at 6 feet 5 inches and 230 pounds, he was not just another baseball player but a force of nature- the name was made for him.

But behind that field presence, there was a different side. Something softer, more devoted, and lovely—his personal life. Parker was married to Kellye Crockett Parker for more than 35 years. The couple has raised 6 children together and made their home in Loveland, Ohio. It’s just outside of Cincinnati, not far from where Parker grew up and played for the Reds in the 1980s.

And his wife, Kellye, has been his rock, mostly in recent years, given that Dave Parker has suffered through Parkinson’s. She helped him navigate everything from treatments and maintaining his routines, and was side by side with him for some unforgettable moments. Like the 40-year reunion of the 1979 World Series team, where Dave Parker even came back to PNC Park and got an ovation from fans. Parker’s story, his legacy, and his role as a father, husband, and fighter only add more depth to his unique nickname.

Rest in peace.