Hall of Fame pitcher, ex-U.S. senator Jim Bunning dies at 85

Jim Bunning went on to a long career in politics after his playing career.

Hall of Fame pitcher and former Kentucky senator Jim Bunning has died, MLB announced. He was 85. 

Bunning was a seven-time All-Star in 17 big league seasons and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1996 by the veteran’s committee. He amassed 224 wins and had a career 3.24 ERA and is one of only 23 pitchers to throw a perfect game.

Bunning hung up his spikes in 1971 and began a career in politics shortly thereafter, first as a city councilman. He was elected to the House of Representatives in 1986 and graduated to the Senate in 1999. He did not run for re-election in 2010.

Bunning’s passing elicited strong reactions from his fellow Kentucky politicians. 

Kentucky lost a true gem today. Sen. Jim Bunning, Baseball Hall of Famer-turned public servant, was a champion of conservatism and (1/5) pic.twitter.com/1dxmXF1UBs

— Governor Matt Bevin (2015-2019) (@GovMattBevin) May 27, 2017

Kentucky lost a true hero. Senator Bunning was fearless on the mound and in the halls of Congress. He will be missed.

— Rand Paul (@RandPaul) May 27, 2017

Bunning had suffered a stroke in October.