Autopsy To Be Performed Friday On Yankees Pitcher Hideki Irabu
July 29 2011, Published 3:30 p.m. ET
By Breaking Celebrity News Staff
An autopsy will be conducted Friday on the body of former New York Yankees pitcher Hideki Irabu who apparently committed suicide at his home in the Los Angeles area.
Irabu, 42, was found dead at his house Wednesday night in the posh L.A. suburb of Rancho Palos Verdes. He reportedly hanged himself – perhaps despondent after his wife left him, taking with her their two young daughters.
"He was found dead by an apparent suicide," Los Angeles County sheriff's Sgt. Michael Arriaga told the Associated Press.
Irabu spent six seasons in the majors from 1997 to 2002 with a career record of 34-35 record and 5.15 ERA. He won two World Series titles with the Yankees (1998 and 1999), but never actually appeared in a Series game.
The Yankees released the following statement following news of his death:
"We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Hideki Irabu. Every player that wears the Pinstripes is forever a part of the Yankees family, and his death is felt throughout our organization. Our sympathies and support go out to his wife, Kyonsu, his two children, and all of his friends and loved ones."
Despite that statement, Yankees owner George Steinbrenner often ridiculed Irabu, calling him a "fat ... toad" because of his weight.
Prior to joining the Yankees, Irabu was a star Japanese pitcher. His contract was purchased in 1997 by the San D