Blue Vida Memorabilia & Collectibles

About Blue Vida Memorabilia & Collectibles

Vida Rochelle Blue, Jr. was born on July 28, 1949 and is a former left- handed starting pitcher in the Major League Baseball. He played for only three teams during his 17- year career namely Oakland Athletics, San Francisco Giants, and Kansas City Royals.

Starting his career early, Blue was a quarterback and a pitcher during high school days. He was offered to go pro football but declined due to his father’s sudden death. Shortly after high school, he signed a contract with Oakland Athletics.

He was a power pitcher and pounded the strike zone, which was unlikely for most southpaws. He was best known with a blistering fist ball that usually had a speed of 100 miles per hour. He also possessed a breaking curveball and an above average change- up. All time hits leader Pete Rose was quoted saying that Blue “threw as hard as anyone” he had ever faced in The Neyer/ James Guide to Pitchers. Baseball historian Bill James also called Blue the hardest throwing southpaw, and second hardest thrower of his era only to Bobby Nolan.

In 1971, Blue made a record to be the only starting pitcher that has won an MVP award, which was followed by Roger Clemens in 1986, this among his many other achievements. He was the youngest player in the AL player to win an MVP award.

Throughout his career, Blue fought drug addiction and was involved in a few scandals related to drugs. Aside from baseball, he was known for his donations to charitable causes which he continues up to this very day.

Reminisce on the great plays made by Blue by getting his signed cards and autographed MLB jersey and other great baseball items for enthusiasts through offers available only through this website.