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Yankees Reliever Ken Clay, 1977-78 World Series Champ, Dies at 71

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Ken Clay, a New York Yankees reliever who pitched in the 1977-78 World Series, died at age 71 after battling heart and kidney issues, according to team officials. Clay debuted in 1977 and became a key postseason performer, earning a save in the 1978 ALCS opener against Kansas City after pitching 3⅔ scoreless innings with the bases loaded. His career included stints with the Texas Rangers and Seattle Mariners, but he struggled in 1979, leading owner George Steinbrenner to dismiss him as a "morning glory." Clay made 111 major league appearances, compiling a 10-24 record and 4.68 ERA.