Larry Christenson Obituary, Cause of Death – Phillies Family Mourns Beloved Pitcher After Fishing Trip Death
The Philadelphia Phillies community is mourning the unexpected passing of Larry Christenson, a former Phillies pitcher and member of the franchise’s 1980 World Series championship team. Christenson died Friday morning at the age of 72 while on a fishing trip with family and friends in Washington.
Christenson spent his entire 11-year Major League Baseball career with the Philadelphia Phillies, becoming a respected pitcher and well-liked teammate during his years with the organization.
Remembering Larry Christenson
Christenson was selected by Philadelphia with the third overall pick in the 1972 MLB Draft and reached the major leagues before his 20th birthday. He made his MLB debut in April 1973, pitching a complete game in a 7-1 victory over the New York Mets at just 19 years old.
He remained with the Phillies from 1973 through 1983 and enjoyed the best season of his career in 1977, when he recorded a career-high 19 victories.
That memorable season also included one of the standout moments of his career. Christenson earned the victory and hit a grand slam during Philadelphia’s division-clinching win over the Chicago Cubs.
Over the course of his Phillies career, he made 220 starts and hit 11 home runs. His 11 home runs as a pitcher tied him with Rick Wise for the most in Phillies franchise history.
Teammates Remember Christenson
News of Christenson’s death prompted tributes from former teammates and longtime friends who remembered not only his ability as a baseball player but also his character away from the field.
Larry Bowa described Christenson as a tremendous teammate, outstanding pitcher and true friend. Former Phillies star Mike Schmidt also reflected on their five decades of friendship.
Schmidt remembered Christenson as someone who remained connected with former teammates, greeted people with a smile and valued the relationships and memories they built throughout their lives.
After his playing career ended, Christenson continued to maintain ties to the Phillies organization and was involved with Phillies Charities and other nonprofit organizations.
Larry Christenson Cause of Death
Larry Christenson died unexpectedly Friday morning while fishing in Washington with family and friends, according to the information provided.
The exact circumstances of his death and a specific medical cause have not been provided. No particular illness, accident or medical condition should be attributed to his passing without confirmation from his family or an authoritative source.
His death has left the Phillies organization, former teammates, family members, friends and baseball fans mourning a player whose career was closely connected to one of the most memorable eras in Philadelphia baseball history.
Larry Christenson’s legacy extends beyond his statistics and championship accomplishments. He will also be remembered for the friendships he maintained, the teammates he supported and the lasting connection he kept with the Phillies community.
May Larry Christenson rest peacefully.
Forever remembered. Never forgotten.