It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Buzz Capra, a right-handed pitcher whose brief but extraordinary peak with the Atlanta Braves left a lasting legacy in 1970s baseball. Capra passed away on May 11 at the age of 78. Born on October 1, 1947, in Chicago, his career was a testament to perseverance and flashes of brilliance that continue to inspire.
Drafted by the New York Mets in the 27th round of the 1969 MLB June Amateur Draft out of Illinois State University, Capra made his Major League debut with the Mets in 1971. His early years saw limited appearances—just three games and an 8.44 ERA—while he served as a spot starter and reliever. Despite flashes of promise, inconsistency kept him from a sustained big-league run.
In March 1974, Capra was purchased by the Atlanta Braves—a move that reshaped his career. At 26, he delivered one of the most astonishing single-season turnarounds in franchise history. Capra led the National League with a 2.28 ERA, threw five shutouts, and completed 11 games over 217 innings. That season earned him an All-Star nod, a top-10 Cy Young finish, and a spot in MVP voting.
Injury setbacks later slowed his momentum, but his 1974 season remains a testament to his skill. Capra finished with a 31–37 record, a 3.87 ERA, and 362 strikeouts across 544.1 innings.
Our condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who admired him. Buzz Capra’s brilliance on the mound and his brief, shining season in 1974 will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace.
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