Larry Christenson, former Phillies pitcher and 1980 World Series champion, dies at 72

Former Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Larry Christenson has passed away unexpectedly at the age of 72. The Phillies announced his death on Friday, noting that he passed while on a fishing trip with friends and family in Washington state.

Christenson, a former third overall pick in the 1972 MLB Draft, spent his entire 11-season professional career with the Phillies. He was a key member of the rotation during the team’s successful period in the late 1970s and was part of the 1980 World Series championship team. His career statistics include an 83-71 regular-season record and a 3.79 ERA.

Teammates and Hall of Famers expressed deep sadness over his passing. Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt described Christenson as a “special” friend who “always had a smile on his face,” while former shortstop Larry Bowa called him a “tremendous teammate” and the “life of the clubhouse.”