Former Eastern Michigan University pitcher Bob Welch has died at the age of 57 according to Major League Baseball.
MLB.com reported Tuesday that Welch died of a heart attack.
Welch played for Eastern from 1974-76, compiling a 17-6 record with a 1.84 career ERA and was named to the All Mid-American Conference first team in 1976.
“With the passing of Bob Welch, the Eastern Michigan University baseball family has lost one of its greatest ambassadors,” EMU Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Heather Lyke said in a news release. “Bob left a lasting impression on the program leading EMU baseball to its most historic run in school history with two trips to the College World Series. The University sends its condolences to Bob’s family, friends and former teammates at this difficult time.”
EMU reached the College World Series in 1975 and 1976.
Welch was drafted 20th overall by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 1977 MLB draft and won the 1990 American League Cy Young Award as a member of the A’s.
According to the A’s website, he is survived by his sons Dylan and Riley, aged 25 and 23, respectively , daughter Kelly, 18 and former wife Mary Ellen.
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