The Pirates drafted Kison out of high school 50 years ago this month. He would reach the majors in 1971. The Bucs would win the World Series in his rookie season. Although the 1971 World Series is best remembered as a showcase for Roberto Clemente, Kison was also a major factor in that Series as the winning pitcher in Game 4 hurling 6.1 innings of one hit relief. The game was also notable as it was the first night game in World Series history.
Kison remained with the Pirates as both a starter and a reliever through the 1979 season when he collected his second World Series ring as he posted a career high 13 wins. He was one of four Pirates who played with both the '71 & '79 teams. The others were Willie Stargell, Manny Sanguillen and Dock Ellis.
In 1980, Kison signed a five year contract with the California Angels. Kison did not perform up to his expectations and even attempted to return the money he was given by the organization. Kison finished his big league career in 1985 with the Boston Red Sox. In 15 seasons, Kison went 115-88 with a 3.66 ERA.
Kison remained involved in baseball after his playing career. He rejoined the Pirates as a minor league pitching coordinator and scout before joining the Kansas City Royals as a bullpen coach and later their pitching coach. Kison spent the last two decades in the Baltimore Orioles organization first as a pitching coach and later as a scout before retiring last December. Sadly, he fell ill shortly after his retirement.
I leave you with Kison celebrating the Pirates' 1971 World Series triumph along with Clemente, Steve Blass and Bob Prince. R.I.P.
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