Former pitcher killed in accident

BOSTON, April 13 (UPI) -- Mark "The Bird" Fidrych, a two-time all-star who pitched five seasons with the Detroit Tigers, was killed in an accident Monday, MLB. Com reported. He was 54.

The Boston Globe said Fidrych was killed while working on a truck at the farm he owned in Massachusetts. The newspaper said it was told Fidrych was found by a family friend underneath the truck.

Fidrych pitched for the Tigers from 1976-80. He was named the American League Rookie of the Year after posting a 19-9 record with a 2.34 ERA and 24 complete games.

During his major league career, Fidrych had a 29-19 record with a 3.10 ERA and five shutouts. He signed with Boston after the 1981 season when the Tigers gave him his outright release, but he tore his rotator cuff and was forced to retire.

"The entire Detroit Tigers organization was saddened to learn of the passing of former player Mark Fidrych today," the team said in a statement posted on its Web site. "Mark was beloved by Tigers fans and he was a special person with a unique personality. The Tigers send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends."

In his first start as a rookie with Detroit, Fidrych pitched a two-hitter against Cleveland. During his brilliant freshman season, he attracted fans for his unusual ritual on the mound, when he would talk to himself -- and sometimes to the ball -- before pitches.

In recent years, Fidrych assumed a higher profile with the Tigers, visiting the team when it was in Boston and participating in several Tigers fantasy camps, MLB.com said.

Fidrych is survived by his wife, Ann, and a daughter, Jessica.