Sam McDowell Dead At 84

CLEVELAND (AP) — Sam McDowell, a six-time All-Star and former major league pitcher, has died. He was 84. Known for leading the American League in strikeouts four times, McDowell played 15 seasons, including 11 with Cleveland. He was a key figure in baseball, with a 141-134 record and 2,453 strikeouts. His life inspired the Sam Malone character on the sitcom “Cheers.” After battling addiction, McDowell became a counselor for athletes. He quit drinking in 1980 and earned a degree in sports psychology. He was recognized with the B.A.T Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022 for his contributions to recovery support.