Dave Parker: The Cobra Strikes Again

Dave Parker, nicknamed "The Cobra," is a former Major League Baseball player who spent 19 seasons in the league. He was a seven-time All-Star, and won two National League batting titles and the 1978 National League Most Valuable Player Award.

Parker was born in Calhoun City, Mississippi, on June 9, 1951. He was a standout baseball player in high school, and was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 14th round of the 1970 Major League Baseball draft.

Parker made his Major League debut with the Pirates in 1973, and quickly established himself as one of the best all-around players in the game. He was a skilled hitter, fielder, and runner, and was a key member of the Pirates' World Series championship team in 1979.

After spending 11 seasons with the Pirates, Parker was traded to the Cincinnati Reds in 1984. He spent four seasons with the Reds, and was a key member of their World Series championship team in 1985.

Parker finished his career with the Oakland Athletics, Milwaukee Brewers, California Angels, and Toronto Blue Jays. He retired from baseball in 1991.

Parker was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2024. He is one of the most decorated players in Pirates history, and is considered one of the best all-around players of his generation.

Here are some of Parker's career highlights:

• Two-time National League batting champion (1977, 1978)
• 1978 National League Most Valuable Player
• Seven-time National League All-Star
• Two-time World Series champion (1979, 1985)
• Member of the Pittsburgh Pirates Hall of Fame
• Member of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame