The 1970s era cool just wafted off of Dave Parker, the gigantic Pirates slugger who was one of the best, if not THE BEST players in baseball in the last half of that decade. Parker's persona, his play, and his essence were all larger than life and are still clear almost 50 years later. That bigness, however, led to problems later in his career, both on and off the field, but ultimately set up a fine career denoument as a productive DH, and a Hall of Fame induction scheduled for later this month. Commemorating the passing of the great Cobra, Mike and Bill look back at a pretty impressive, though flawed, career and person.

Plus, happy birthday to Cy Blanton and Gene Alley!

And farewell to Frank Johnson and Vic Harris.