Joe DePugh, the remarkable individual who inspired Bruce Springsteen’s iconic 1985 anthem “Glory Days,” has sadly passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 75 years old. DePugh’s life and legacy are intimately connected to the world of music and baseball, making his story one worth sharing and remembering.

In a heartfelt tribute shared on his social media on March 30, Springsteen paid homage to his childhood friend, stating, “Just a moment to mark the passing of Freehold native and ballplayer Joe DePugh. He was a good friend when I needed one. ‘He could throw that speedball by you, make you look like a fool‘….Glory Days my friend.” This emotional reflection highlights the enduring friendship they shared throughout their lives.

Springsteen and DePugh’s bond was forged in their hometown of Freehold, New Jersey, where they both participated in the same youth baseball league. Their paths crossed again in 1973 at a local bar, where they reminisced about their youth and the fun they had, including the playful rivalry over their respective baseball skills.

Years later, Springsteen immortalized DePugh in the lyrics of “Glory Days,” capturing their shared experiences and memories in the first verse: “I had a friend who was a big baseball player / Back in high school / He could throw that speedball by you / Make you look like a fool, boy.” This connection to their past not only showcases their friendship but also the impact of those formative years on Springsteen’s music.

The song, featured on the critically acclaimed 1984 album Born in the U.S.A., became a massive hit, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart during the summer of 1985. Its nostalgic themes resonate with many, reflecting the bittersweet nature of looking back on one’s youth.

Despite Springsteen’s immense fame and success, DePugh emphasized in a 2011 interview with the Palm Beach Post that he always viewed Springsteen as his childhood friend. “Whenever we’re together, it’s the same dynamic: I’m the star and he’s the guy at the end of the bench,'” DePugh expressed. “That’s who he has always been to me, my right fielder.” This statement reveals the deep-rooted camaraderie that remained intact over the years.

Listen to Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Glory Days’