A Legacy of Excellence
Former MLB pitcher Lee ‘Buzz’ Capra passed away at the age of 78, marking the end of a remarkable career that left an indelible mark on the world of baseball. His alma mater, Illinois State University, shared the news of his passing, highlighting the impact he had on both the sport and the community.
Capra’s journey in professional baseball began with the Atlanta Braves, where he earned All-Star honors during his four-year tenure. His contributions to the team were significant, and he is remembered for one of the most successful seasons of his career in 1974. That year, he not only made the National League All-Star team but also posted a 16-8 record and secured the NL ERA title with a stellar 2.28 mark.
In June of that season, Capra achieved a remarkable feat by going 6–0 with a 1.05 ERA, recording three shutouts and another complete game. This performance set a team record with nine consecutive wins, showcasing his exceptional talent and determination on the mound.
At the end of that season, Capra received down-ballot Cy Young and MVP votes, a testament to his outstanding start with the Braves. However, his career was ultimately cut short due to an arm injury, which led to just 62 more appearances before he retired after being released by the Braves in 1978.
Despite the challenges he faced, Capra continued to contribute to baseball in various capacities. He went on to coach baseball at Northeastern Illinois University and worked with several minor league organizations, including the Braves, Mets, Expos, Phillies, and White Sox. His passion for the game and dedication to coaching ensured that his influence extended beyond his playing days.
Honoring a Baseball Legend
The legacy of Lee ‘Buzz’ Capra is celebrated by those who knew him and those who followed his career. Steve Holm, the head baseball coach at Illinois State University, expressed his deep admiration for Capra, stating, “Buzz is a legend in our program and one of the best baseball players to ever wear a Redbird uniform.” He also highlighted Capra’s achievements, including leading his alma mater to the 1969 National Baseball Championship.
“Lee was a Hall of Famer, national champion, longtime MLB professional and coach, and his legacy in the game of baseball will live on. Our condolences go out to his family, friends and former ISU teammates at this difficult time,” Holm added.
Memorial Services
A visitation for Capra will take place on Monday, May 18, from 3pm until 8pm and again on Tuesday from 10am until the time of the funeral service at 11am at Cumberland Chapels in Norridge, Illinois. This event will provide an opportunity for friends, family, and fans to pay their respects and celebrate the life of a true baseball icon.
