Larry Christenson, pitcher on Phillies' 1980 World Series-winning team, dies at 72

NEW YORK - CIRCA 1975: Larry Christenson #38 of the Philadelphia Phillies pitches against the New York Mets during an Major League Baseball game circa 1975 at Shea Stadium in the Queens borough of New York City. Christenson played for the Phillies from 1973-83. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)Focus On Sport via Getty Images

Larry Christenson, a member of the 1980 Philadelphia Phillies’ World Series-winning team, died on Friday at the age of 72.

Christenson, a right-handed pitcher who played his entire MLB career with the franchise, passed away while on a fishing trip in Washington with friends and family, the team said.

"The club and its fans are forever grateful for his contributions and the legacy he leaves behind in Philadelphia," the Phillies said in a statement. "We extend our heartfelt condolences to Larry's beloved daughters, Claire and Libby, his extended family and friends, and former teammates at this difficult time."

My heart is heavy today. LC was a tremendous teammate, an outstanding pitcher and a true friend. Win or lose, he was always the life of the clubhouse. He will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

— Larry Bowa (@LarryBowa10) August 29, 2026

Christenson was the No. 3 overall pick in the 1972 MLB draft. Less than a year later, at age 19, he made his debut that was one to remember.

During a 7-1 win over the New York Mets on April 13, 1973, Christenson pitched a complete game, striking out three batters. It is the last time a teenage MLB pitcher making his debut earned a complete-game victory.

Two years later, Christenson recorded his first MLB hit, which was a home run. In total, he hit 11 home runs, tying him with Rick Wise for the Phillies franchise lead among pitchers.

Christenson would record double digit wins four consecutive seasons from 1975 to 1978, including a career-high 19 in 1977. That season he also ended up as the winning pitcher and hit a grand slam as the Phillies clinched the NL East over the Chicago Cubs.

In 1980, Christenson made 14 starts, going 5-1 over 73.2 innings pitched during the regular season. The Phillies would win the NL East with a 91-71 record and then go to defeat the Houston Astros and Kansas City Royals to win the World Series.

"Larry was very special, the guy that kept in touch with all of us," former Phillies infielder Mike Schmidt said in a statement, "he always had a smile on his face, he never forgot a moment he spent with you. His passing will leave a hole in all of our hearts. May he rest in peace."