Discussion

Hideki Irabu found dead in California

Updated: July 30, 2011, 1:50 AM ET
Associated Press
LOS ANGELES -- Hideki Irabu joined the New York Yankees 14 years ago in a swell of international excitement. The quirky, flamethrowing Japanese right-hander seemed destined to become a pioneering star for American baseball's marquee franchise.

Irabu never reached those enormous expectations, and his career spiraled. On Wednesday, the 42-year-old was found dead, an apparent suicide in a home in Rancho Palos Verdes, a wealthy Los Angeles suburb.

"He was a world-class pitcher," ...

Read full story

ESPN Conversations


You must be signed in to post a comment

Already have an account?

EDITORS' PICKS

  • Sweep And Savory
    The Yankees completed their first sweep since early April on Sunday.
  • A Banner Day
    Dickey had seven scoreless with 10 Ks as the Mets reach six games over .500.
  • Russian To Judgment
    Kovalchuk is making preconceived notions about him seem foolish.
  • The Truth Hurts
    The Rangers were a flawed team, and even coach John Tortorella knew it.
  • This Guy?
    Larry Brown: Woodson has "unbelievable chance" to win because of ... Dolan?

MORE MLB HEADLINES