The sports world mourns the loss of Randy Moffitt, a former Major League Baseball pitcher and the younger brother of tennis icon Billie Jean King. He passed away at the age of 76 in Long Beach, California, after an extended illness.
A Sporting Legacy
Randy Moffitt carved out a successful 12-year career in MLB, primarily as a relief pitcher. Drafted by the San Francisco Giants in 1970, he quickly rose through the ranks, making his debut just two years later. He spent ten seasons with the Giants, amassing 83 saves and a 3.68 ERA across 459 games. His contributions were recognized with a spot on the Giants' Wall of Fame in 2008.
Moffitt's career faced a setback in 1979 when he contracted a rare intestinal parasite, leading to health challenges. He recovered and continued his career with the Houston Astros and Toronto Blue Jays before retiring in 1983.
Sibling Bond and Rivalry
Beyond his baseball achievements, Randy Moffitt shared a close bond with his sister, Billie Jean King. King, a pioneering figure in tennis and women's sports, described their competitive spirit in an Instagram post earlier this year. Their sibling rivalry even extended into the Giants-Dodgers rivalry when King acquired a minority stake in the Dodgers in 2018.
In a heartfelt tribute on social media, King remembered her brother as loyal, kind, and caring, highlighting his love for his daughters and grandchildren.
Moffitt is survived by his daughters, Miranda Harrah and Alysha Gosse, their husbands, and four grandchildren, as well as Billie Jean King and her wife, Ilana Kloss.