History of Dave Parker in Timeline

Dave Parker, nicknamed "the Cobra," was a prominent MLB right fielder from 1973-1991. A seven-time All-Star, he secured two National League batting titles and the 1978 NL MVP award. Parker played a key role on two World Series-winning teams, first with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1979 and later with the Oakland Athletics in 1989. His career was marked by both exceptional performance and, later, challenges with injuries and salary disputes.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

June 9, 1951: David Parker Born

On June 9, 1951, David Gene Parker, later known as "the Cobra", was born.

1973: MLB Debut

In 1973, David Parker began his Major League Baseball career after being elevated from the minor leagues by the Pittsburgh Pirates.

1975: Defensive Outfielder

From 1975 to 1979, Dave Parker threw out 72 runners, showcasing his skills as a solid defensive outfielder.

1977: Runners Thrown Out

In 1977, Dave Parker threw out 26 runners.

1977: National League Batting Champion

In 1977, Dave Parker was the National League batting champion.

June 30, 1978: Parker Suffers Fractured Jaw

On June 30, 1978, Dave Parker sustained a fractured jaw and cheekbone after colliding with John Stearns at home plate during a game against the New York Mets.

1978: Named National League MVP

In 1978, Dave Parker was named the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP).

January 1979: Signed Million-Dollar Contract

In January 1979, Dave Parker became the first American athlete to earn an average of $1 million per year, after signing a five-year, $5 million contract.

1979: All-Star Selection

Dave Parker was the only member of the Pirates to make the United Press International all-star selection at the end of the 1979 season.

1979: World Series Champion

In 1979, Dave Parker won the World Series championship with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

1979: Use of Protective Gear

In early 1979, Dave Parker voluntarily stopped using the controversial modified football helmets with a facemask.

1981: Featured in "The 100 Greatest Baseball Players of All Time"

In 1981, Lawrence Ritter and Donald Honig included Dave Parker in their book, "The 100 Greatest Baseball Players of All Time."

The 100 Greatest Baseball Players of All Time: Babe Ruth, Lou Brock, Paul Wagner, Ty Cobb, Etc.

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December 7, 1983: Signed with Cincinnati Reds

On December 7, 1983, Dave Parker became a free agent and signed with the Cincinnati Reds.

1985: Best Season Since 1978

In 1985, Dave Parker had his best season since 1978, finishing with a .312 batting average and 34 home runs, leading the National League with 125 RBIs. He finished second in MVP voting.

1986: Pirates Legal Action

In 1986, the Pittsburgh Pirates initiated legal action against Dave Parker due to his alleged breach of contractual obligations.

December 8, 1987: Traded to Oakland Athletics

On December 8, 1987, Cincinnati traded Dave Parker to the Oakland Athletics for José Rijo and Tim Birtsas.

1988: Parker's Performance in 1988

In 1988, Dave Parker played for the Oakland Athletics, hitting .257 with 12 home runs in 377 at-bats.

December 3, 1989: Signed with Milwaukee Brewers

On December 3, 1989, Dave Parker signed a two-year contract with the Milwaukee Brewers.

1989: Parker's Performance in 1989

In 1989, Dave Parker played for the Oakland Athletics, hitting .264 with 22 home runs in 553 at-bats.

1990: All-Star Reserve

In 1990, Dave Parker was selected as a reserve for the All-Star Game.

March 14, 1991: Traded to the Angels

On March 14, 1991, the Milwaukee Brewers traded Dave Parker to the Angels for Dante Bichette.

1991: Final Season in MLB

Dave Parker's last season in Major League Baseball was 1991.

1991: Signed with Toronto Blue Jays

In 1991, Dave Parker's final season, he signed with the Toronto Blue Jays as insurance for the pennant race on September 14 after being released by the California Angels on September 7.

March 1992: Interest from the Chicago White Sox

In March 1992, the Chicago White Sox showed interest in Dave Parker as a possible backup for Bo Jackson.

April 2, 1992: Chicago White Sox signed George Bell

On April 2, 1992, the Chicago White Sox signing of George Bell meant that Dave Parker had no potential offers to continue playing in the major leagues.