Bob Welch, former Dodgers pitcher, dies at age 57

SEAL BEACH, Calif. (KABC) -- Bob Welch, former pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Oakland Athletics, died Monday night in Seal Beach at the age of 57.

Welch died of a heart attack at his home, according to a statement from the Dodgers. Police say an official cause of death is pending toxicology tests and further investigation.

"The Los Angeles Dodgers are saddened to learn of the passing of Bob Welch," said Dodger President and CEO Stan Kasten in a statement. "He was one of the greatest competitors to wear the Dodger uniform."

Welch was the starting pitcher for the Dodgers from 1978 to 1987 and then the Athletics from 1988 to 1994, compiling a 211-146 record and 3.47 ERA. He was the last pitcher to win 25 or more games in a regular season when he won 27 games in 1990.

"This is a sad day for the entire A's organization, said Billy Beane, A's general manager, said in a statement. "Those of us who knew Bob as a teammate and a friend will miss him greatly."

Welch was best known for striking out Reggie Jackson during the 1978 World Series between the Dodgers and the New York Yankees. He was a 21-year-old rookie at the time, facing off with "Mr. October."

He was selected to pitch the All-Star game in 1980 and 1990 and earned the American League Cy Young Award in 1990.

After he retired, he went on to work as a pitching coach for the Arizona Diamondbacks when they won the 2001 World Series. Recently, he served as a special instructor to the A's.

Welch was an admitted alcoholic early in his career and spent time in rehabilitation. He co-authored a book in 1981 with George Vecsey about his addiction titled "Five O'Clock Comes Early: A Ballplayer's Battle With Alcoholism."

Funeral services are pending. Welch is survived by his three children, 25-year-old Dylan, 18-year-old Kelly and 23-year-old Riley.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.