Pirates Fans Will Love Dave Parker’s Reaction To Hall Of Fame Election

Dave Parker was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame on Sunday, the first day of the MLB winter meetings in Dallas.

It was fitting timing — shortly before Juan Soto reportedly agreed to a 15-year, $765 million deal with the New York Mets — because Parker couldn’t help but make light of the hefty contracts being tossed around now relative to when he played (1973-91).

“Well, it was a long time waiting. So, I was excited,” Parker said on MLB Network of his Hall call. “Wish I could play in today’s market with the salaries that they’re giving away. I think that would be ideal.”

Parker received 14 votes — more than the minimum 12 of 16 votes necessary for induction — as part of the Classic Baseball Era Committee process. He’ll be joined in Cooperstown by Dick Allen, who received 13 votes.

“I’m looking forward to being there,” Parker said Sunday on MLB Network. “I’ve been holding this speech in for 15 years.”

Parker, nicknamed “Cobra,” spent 11 seasons with the Pirates to kick off his 19-year MLB career. He also played for the Cincinnati Reds, Oakland Athletics, Milwaukee Brewers, California Angels and Toronto Blue Jays.

Parker racked up seven All-Star appearances, three Gold Glove Awards, three Silver Slugger Awards and two batting titles in his illustrious career. He won two World Series titles — first with Pittsburgh in 1979, then with Oakland in 1989.

More MLB: Pirates Star Pitcher Excited With Addition Of New Pitching Coach