TTM Stats
- Sent: 4/27/2022 | Received: 5/4/2022 | 7 Days
- ’69 Topps, ’70 Topps
- Address: Home (address from Sports Card Forum)
The Story of the Autograph
Steve Blass is a name forever linked to both triumph and mystery in baseball history. As a pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates, he reached the pinnacle of success, helping lead the team to a World Series championship in 1971. However, his career took an unexpected turn when he suddenly lost his ability to throw strikes, a condition now commonly referred to as “Steve Blass Disease.”
Stephen Robert Blass was born on April 18, 1942, in Canaan, Connecticut. A talented athlete, he excelled in baseball during his high school years and was signed by the Pittsburgh Pirates as an amateur free agent in 1960. Blass steadily progressed through the Pirates’ minor league system, refining his control and developing into a reliable pitcher. His hard work paid off when he made his MLB debut on May 10, 1964. Over the next few seasons, he solidified his place in the Pirates’ starting rotation.
By the late 1960s, Blass had become one of the Pirates’ most dependable pitchers. His breakout year came in 1968 when he posted an impressive 18-6 record with a 2.12 ERA. He continued to be a workhorse for Pittsburgh, consistently providing quality starts and helping lead the team to contention in the National League.
His greatest moment came in 1971 when the Pirates won the National League pennant and faced the Baltimore Orioles in the World Series. Blass was dominant, winning two complete-game victories, including a masterful Game 7 performance in which he held the Orioles to just one run. His clutch pitching secured the championship for Pittsburgh, and he was later named the runner-up for World Series MVP, finishing just behind Roberto Clemente.
Following his World Series heroics, Blass had another strong season in 1972, earning his first and only All-Star selection. However, in 1973, his career took a dramatic and baffling turn. Almost overnight, he lost the ability to throw strikes, struggling with extreme wildness. His ERA skyrocketed to 9.85, and he walked an astonishing 84 batters in just 88.2 innings.
Despite attempts to regain his form, Blass never recovered. He spent time in the minors trying to work through the issue, but by 1975, he retired from professional baseball. His sudden loss of control remains one of the most well-known cases of a psychological or mechanical breakdown in sports, leading to the term “Steve Blass Disease,” which is used to describe pitchers who inexplicably lose their command.
Despite the abrupt end to his playing career, Blass remained a beloved figure in Pittsburgh. He transitioned into broadcasting, becoming a longtime color commentator for the Pirates, a role he held for over 30 years. His deep knowledge of the game and engaging personality made him a fan favorite in the booth. Blass retired from broadcasting in 2019, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond his playing days. His contributions to the Pirates organization, both as a player and broadcaster, have made him a cherished figure in Pittsburgh sports history.
Steve Blass’s career is one of baseball’s most unique stories—one of both triumph and tragedy. His World Series heroics in 1971 remain an unforgettable moment in Pirates history, while his sudden decline serves as a cautionary tale about the unpredictable nature of sports.
Though his playing days ended far earlier than expected, Blass embraced his journey with humor and grace, becoming an ambassador for the game. His story is a reminder of the highs and lows that come with a life in professional baseball, and his name will always be remembered in the sport’s rich history.
The Score on Steve Blass – 7.0
Steve is a pretty consistent signer. I think for guys with vintage cards, he might be one of my favorites. I think that goes back to his story in the game, how he’s continued in the game with the Pirates and all that. But also he was one of my great aunt’s favorite players.
Thanks Mr. Blass! I’m giving this return a 7.
This is my third successful return from him. To see the other successful returns, check out these posts:
>>> READ MORE ABOUT MY AUTOGRAPH SCORING SYSTEM <<<
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Information gathered using Wikipedia and Baseball Reference.