Boston, MA (My Sportsbook) - Mark "The Bird" Fidrych, who pitched five seasons in the majors with Detroit, passed away Monday due to an accident at his home in Northborough, Massachusetts. He was 54. The Boston Globe reports Fidrych was killed while working on his pickup truck. The office of Worcester District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. told the Globe Fidrych was found by a family friend underneath his truck at about 2:30 p.m. (et). "The entire Detroit Tigers organization was saddened to learn of the passing of former player Mark Fidrych today," the Tigers said in a statement. "Mark was beloved by Tigers fans and he was a special person with a unique personality. The Tigers send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends." Fidrych, who pitched for the Tigers from 1976-80, was named the American League Rookie of the Year and was a two-time All-Star and started the 1976 Midsummer Classic. During his rookie campaign, Fidrych compiled a 19-9 record with a 2.34 ERA and had an amazing 24 complete games. Over his career, Fidrych compiled a 29-19 record with a 3.10 ERA, 34 complete games, including five shutouts. His career was cut short mostly due to arm injuries. Fidrych tried to revive his career after the 1981 season when the Tigers gave him his outright release and he was signed as a free agent by the Boston Red Sox. Fidrych, though tore his rotator cuff and was forced to retire.
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