Photo Credit: Getty Images
Larry Christenson, the former Philadelphia Phillies pitcher and member of the team's 1980 World Series championship squad, has died at 72.
The Phillies announced that Christenson died unexpectedly on Friday, Aug. 28, while on a fishing trip with family and friends in Washington state. The team did not immediately provide further details about the circumstances surrounding his death.
A Washington native, Christenson was selected by the Phillies in the third round of the 1972 MLB Draft. He made his major league debut on April 13, 1973, against the New York Mets when he was just 19 years old.
Christenson made an immediate impact in his first MLB appearance, earning the win after pitching a complete game. According to MLB, he remains the last pitcher to record a complete-game victory as a teenager in his major league debut.
Christenson spent his entire 11-year MLB career with the Phillies, becoming an important part of the organization during one of the most successful periods in franchise history.
He was part of the Phillies team that won the 1980 World Series, the first championship in franchise history. He also played on the club that captured the National League pennant in 1983. During his career, the Phillies reached the playoffs six times.
Christenson ranks ninth among Phillies pitchers in career starts. He also hit 11 home runs during his career, tying him with Rick Wise for the most home runs by a pitcher in franchise history.
Beyond his contributions on the field, Christenson remained connected to the Philadelphia community after his playing days. The Phillies said he was an active supporter of Phillies Charities and other local nonprofit organizations.
The team expressed condolences to his daughters, Claire and Libby, as well as his extended family, friends and former teammates.
News of Christenson's death also prompted tributes from former teammates who remembered him as both a talented player and a beloved friend.
Larry Bowa, who played alongside Christenson from 1973 to 1981, shared a heartfelt message following the news.
"My heart is heavy today," Bowa wrote, describing Christenson as a tremendous teammate, outstanding pitcher and true friend. He also remembered him as the life of the clubhouse and said he would be deeply missed.
Former Phillies infielder Mike Schmidt similarly remembered Christenson fondly, telling ESPN that he was "very special" and someone who stayed connected with his former teammates.
Schmidt said Christenson always had a smile on his face and never forgot the moments he shared with others.
For the Phillies and their fans, Christenson leaves behind a lasting legacy as a World Series champion, longtime teammate and valued member of the Philadelphia baseball community.
