Why was Dave Parker called ‘The Cobra’? Exploring the baseball veteran’s iconic nickname and career

On June 28, 2025, Dave Parker, a former MLB star, died at the age of 74, as confirmed by both the Pittsburgh Pirates and Cincinnati Reds. His legacy spans nearly two decades, during which he left a lasting mark on baseball, not just with his stats but also with his signature nickname, "The Cobra."

Parker was widely celebrated as a standout for the Pittsburgh Pirates and Cincinnati Reds, earning accolades like an MVP award, two batting titles, and a World Series championship. Yet it was the nickname that came to symbolize the force he was on the diamond.

This moniker — The Cobra — was given to Dave Parker in the early 1970s by Pittsburgh Pirates broadcaster Bob Prince. Prince, known for his specific brand of commentary, came up with the nickname to illustrate Parker’s explosive power at the plate and his high-speed reflexes.

Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 230 pounds, Parker dominated the game with both presence and performance. The name stuck not just because of his build, but because of his clear-cut, striking impact, much like the serpent that inspired it. He once said:

“When Bob Prince called me ‘The Cobra,’ I felt like that name fit. I was quick, and when I struck, I made sure people felt it.”

Known for his aggressive base running and cannon arm from the outfield, Parker wrapped up his 19-year MLB career with 339 home runs, a .290 batting average, and 1,493 RBIs. He also spent time with teams including the Milwaukee Brewers, California Angels, and Toronto Blue Jays.

A special committee selected Parker for induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in December 2024. He was due to be honored posthumously in Cooperstown on July 27.

As a tribute, the Pirates observed a moment of silence before Saturday’s game against the Mets. The team wrote:

“We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Hall of Famer Dave Parker… The Cobra was part of the inaugural Pirates Hall of Fame class in 2022, and will be enshrined in the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown next month.”

MLB's official X (Twitter) account also honored Parker's memory, writing:

Trending

"'The Cobra' was one of the fiercest hitters of his generation. The two-time batting champion and 1978 NL MVP won two World Series rings, one with the Pirates in 1979 and one with the A’s in 1989."

Dave Parker is survived by his wife, Kelly Crocket, and their six children.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback