Dave Giusti, the dependable reliever who played a key role in the Pittsburgh Pirates’ 1971 World Series championship, has died at the age of 86, the team confirmed.
Giusti spent 15 seasons in Major League Baseball, posting a 100–93 record with a 3.60 ERA across 668 appearances for five teams. While he began his career as a starter with Houston, he found his greatest success after the Pirates acquired him in 1969 and moved him permanently to the bullpen.
His finest moment came in 1971, when he led the National League with 30 saves and delivered 10 2/3 scoreless innings in the postseason. Giusti helped shut down opponents as Pittsburgh defeated the Giants in the NLCS and the Orioles in a dramatic seven-game World Series.
Giusti earned his only All-Star selection in 1973 and finished his seven-year Pirates career with 133 saves – third-most in franchise history.
A native of Seneca Falls, New York, Giusti starred at Syracuse before signing with Houston. He later wrapped up his career with brief stops in Oakland and Chicago before retiring in 1977.
Giusti is survived by his wife, two daughters, and four grandchildren. His legacy as one of Pittsburgh’s most reliable bullpen arms will not be forgotten.