J.R. Richard, Power Pitcher for Astros in ‘70s, Dies at 71

Former Houston Astros pitcher J.R. Richard throws out the ceremonial first pitch before the Astros' baseball game against the Cincinnati Reds in Houston, Texas, on June 1, 2012. Pat Sullivan/AP Photo

HOUSTON—J.R. Richard, a huge, flame-throwing right-hander who spent 10 years with the Houston Astros before his career was cut short by a stroke, has died. He was 71.

The team announced his death on Thursday but did not provide any further details.