Retired star takes harsh shot at Hall of Fame for treatment of Pirates' Dave Parker

The baseball world suffered a huge blow on June 28, 2025, with the passing of Pittsburgh Pirates legend Dave Parker. A formidable presence in the batter's box and in right field, Parker, who dominated baseball for much of the 1970s and 80s, served as one of the archetypes for today's monstrous athletic freaks who roam the diamond.

With seven All-Star selections, three Gold Gloves, three Silver Sluggers, two Batting Titles, two World Series rings, and 339 career home runs on his resume, the 1978 NL MVP had a laundry list of accolades, which finally earned him his due as a member of the 2025 Hall of Fame class. He was selected for the ultimate and well-deserved honor late last year by the Classic Baseball ERA Committee.

With the induction ceremony set for July 27, a retired star is speaking out in support of the legendary Parker.

Gary Sheffield says what we've all been thinking about the Hall of Fame's treatment of Pirates legend Dave Parker

One thing is for certain: Gary Sheffield has never been afraid to speak his mind. The nine-time All-Star earned a reputation for being vocal throughout his 22-year career. Sheffield has seen a lot of baseball and recognizes greatness, and while you might not agree with him on everything, there isn't a case in the world that can be made to prove that he's wrong on this issue.

Appearing on Foul Territory, Sheffield had the following to say regarding Parker and the Hall of Fame, "We're playing with people's lives that deserve to be here. And they never got a chance to walk across that stage."

And he's 100% right. Far too often, the voters drag their feet on certain candidates they decide to be borderline, knowing that ultimately, the player who is deserving will eventually get elected by one of the committees later on down the road. In the case of Parker, it's tragic.

It may sound cold to say, but it shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone that Parker didn't live to see the day his glorious career was finally honored. Diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2012, the clock was ticking on Parker being able to experience the honor he so very much deserved. He went public with his diagnosis in 2013, giving the Hall of Fame plenty of time to make the right decision.

In spite of it all, Parker tackled his ailment with the same grit and spirit that made him beloved on the baseball field. Through his foundation, he's done tremendous work to bring the conversation of the debilitating disease to the forefront and help those in need.

The ball is now in the Pirates' court to properly honor the man in a way they should have done much earlier, and heed the pleas of second baseman Nick Gonzales and retire Parker's number 39. The Pirates have struggled to do right by their legends recently, so this is a good place to start.

This unfortunate story should be a wakeup call for the Hall of Fame and baseball at large. It's time to honor the legends of the game and those who gave us all so much while they're alive and well. No more kicking the can down the road. No more relying on esoteric committees to do the right thing., especially when it comes to the good ones like Dave Parker.