Former Major League Baseball pitcher Lee 'Buzz' Capra has died at the age of 78, his alma mater Illinois State University announced on Monday. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Early Life and Career
Born in Chicago, Capra was selected by the New York Mets in the 27th round of the 1969 MLB Draft after a standout college career at Illinois State. He made his big league debut in 1971 and spent three seasons with the Mets before being sold to the Atlanta Braves prior to the 1974 campaign.
All-Star Season with Atlanta
In his first year with the Braves, Capra enjoyed the finest season of his career. He was named to the National League All-Star team, posting a 16-8 record and leading the league with a 2.28 ERA. During June 1974, he went 6-0 with a 1.05 ERA, three shutouts, and a complete game, setting a franchise record with nine consecutive wins. At season's end, he received down-ballot votes for both the Cy Young Award and Most Valuable Player Award.
Injury and Retirement
Unfortunately, an arm injury derailed Capra's promising career. After his All-Star campaign, he made only 62 more appearances before being released by the Braves in 1978, prompting his retirement from professional baseball.
Post-Playing Career
Following his playing days, Capra transitioned into coaching. He served as a baseball coach at Northeastern Illinois University and for several minor league organizations, including the Braves, Mets, Expos, Phillies, and Chicago White Sox.
Legacy at Illinois State
Illinois State University head baseball coach Steve Holm paid tribute to Capra, stating: 'Buzz is a legend in our program and one of the best baseball players to ever wear a Redbird uniform. He was a Hall of Famer, national champion, longtime MLB professional and coach, and his legacy in the game of baseball will live on. Our condolences go out to his family, friends and former ISU teammates at this difficult time.'
Capra led Illinois State to the 1969 National Baseball Championship and was inducted into the university's Athletics Hall of Fame.
Funeral Arrangements
Visitation for Capra will be held on Monday, May 18, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., and again on Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the funeral service at 11 a.m. at Cumberland Chapels in Norridge, Illinois.
