Pirates Mourn the Passing Of Elroy Face

The Pittsburgh Pirates confirmed the passing of former right-handed pitcher Elroy Face today in North Versailles, PA. He was 97 years old and eight days shy of his 98th birthday (Feb. 20).

“It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we mourn the passing of Pirates Hall of Famer Elroy Face, a beloved member of the Pirates family,” said Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting. “I was fortunate to get to know Elroy personally, and I will always be proud that we had the chance to honor him with his induction into the Pirates Hall of Fame.

“Elroy was a pioneer of the modern relief pitcher — the ‘Baron of the Bullpen’ — and he played a critical role in our 1960 World Series championship, leading the league in appearances and recording three saves against the Yankees.

“Our thoughts are with his three children — Michelle, Valerie and Elroy Jr. — and his sister Jacqueline.”

Inducted into the Pirates Hall of Fame in 2023 and widely known as the pioneer of modern relief pitching, Face spent 15 seasons pitching with the Bucs and is the club’s all-time leader in appearances (802). Had saves been an official statistic prior to 1969, he would also be the leader in that department with 188.

Elroy holds the National League record for most games won in relief (96) and holds the Major League record for most relief wins in one season after going 18-1 in 1959. In addition to being a 1960 World Series champion with the Pirates, he was a three-time All-Star and posted a 100-93 record in his career with the Bucs.

He is survived by his three children, Michelle, Valerie and Elroy Jr. and his sister Jacqueline.