Former All Star Pitcher Jose Lima Dead at 37

Former major league right handed pitcher, Jose Lima, died on Sunday of an apparent heart attack. He was 37 years old. Paramedics were called to Lima's home by his wife, but were unable to revive him.

Lima, who was born in Santiago in the Dominican Republic, pitched 13 seasons in the major leagues. He had a career record of 89-102 and played for five teams, the Detroit Tigers, Houston Astros, Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Dodgers, and New York Mets. His best season was in 1999 with the Astros. He had a record of 21-10 with a 3.58 earned run average. That season he made his lone appearance in the All-Star game. Lima played in his last major league game in July 2006 with the Mets.

Lima was known for his gregarious nature and when he pitched it was known as "Lima Time." His last public appearance was this past Friday when he attended a Dodgers game in Los Angeles. He is survived by his wife, Dorca, and five children.

Even before he died there were rumors floating around that Lima was on the list of 103 players that were found to be doing steroids back in 2003. Now that he has died of an apparent heart attack, at just 37 years old, those rumors are sure get louder.

Sources:

Enrique Rojas, Lima, 37, died of heart attack, wife says, ESPN.com

2003 Major League Baseball Steroids List, zooped.com

Jose Lima, baseballreference.com