Jim Bunning dies at 85

Jim Bunning, a former Hall of Fame pitcher who pitched six seasons with the Phillies and went on to serve in Congress, has died. He was 85.
Bunning's death was confirmed by Jon Deuser, who served as chief of staff when Bunning was in the Senate. Deuser said he was notified about the death by Bunning's family.

Bunning won 224 games in a 17-year major-league career and pitched the first perfect game in modern National League history. It came with the Phillies on June 21, 1964. He also became the first pitcher after 1900 to throw no-hitters in both the American and National Leagues.
In the Senate, his ornery nature forced Republican leaders to push him to retire after two terms.

The Kentucky Republican also served 12 years in the U.S. House. He was a staunchly conservative voice in the Senate and a fierce protector of state interests such as tobacco, coal and military bases. He did not seek re-election in 2010.

Click to expand...