Three-time World Series champion Ken Holtzman dead at 78: Chicago Cubs pay tribute to prolific pitcher who threw two no-hitters

Former MLB pitcher Ken Holtzman died on Sunday night at 78.

On Monday, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported that Holtzman had been hospitalized for three weeks as he battled with heart issues.

The lefty's career spanned from 1965-79. Holtzman recorded 174 wins and a 3.49 ERA while playing for the Cubs, Athletics, Yankees, and Orioles. Following the news of his passing, Chicago and Oakland released statements to remember Holtzman's life and career.

'We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Cubs pitcher Ken Holtzman,' the Cubs said in a statement.

'Ken was a Cub from 1965-1971 and 1978-1979. He posted a 3.76 ERA in 237 games with the club, including two no-hitters, cementing himself as one of the best left-handed pitchers in Cubs history.'

Former MLB pitcher Ken Holtzman died on Sunday night after being hospitalized for weeks 

Holtzman helped the A's win three straight World Series titles in 1972, 1973, and 1974

Holtzman made stints with the Baltimore Orioles and New York Yankees after Oakland 

The Athletics' statement said: 'The two-time All-Star and three-time World Series Champion with the Green and Gold, Holtzman created lasting memories for our franchise.'

During his time in the Bay Area, Holtzman helped the A's win three straight World Series titles in 1972, 1973, and 1974. In addition to building a legacy in Oakland, the A's won at least one game in the fall classic during those years.

Before joining the A's, he started his career in Chicago, where he became a staple in the Cubs' pitching rotation. Holtzman made 39 starts for the Cubs in 1969 before losing to the Mets in the World Series.

He played in New York for three years and went 12-10 with the Bronx Bombers, though he did not appear in the playoffs in 1976 or 1977.

Holtzman made a quick stop in Baltimore before joining the Yankees and returned to Chicago to close his career after his time in New York.

With nine more wins than Sandy Koufax's 165, Holtzman is the winningest pitcher of Jewish heritage in MLB history.