Christenson, WS winner with '80 Phillies, dies

Larry Christenson, a pitcher on the Philadelphia Phillies' 1980 World Series-winning team who spent his entire career with the franchise, died Friday at the age of 72.

The Phillies announced that Christenson died while on a fishing trip with family and friends in Washington. No other details were immediately available.

"The club and its fans are forever grateful for his contributions and the legacy he leaves behind in Philadelphia," the team 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."

Christenson spent 11 years with the Phillies (1973-83) after being drafted in the third round in 1972. He pitched a complete game in his major league debut against the New York Mets on April 13, 1973. No debuting pitcher has pitched a complete game since.

He made 14 starts and went 5-1 with a 4.03 ERA in 1980 as the Phillies reached the World Series, though he was rocked for four runs on five hits while pitching just one-third of an inning while starting a Game 4 loss to the Kansas City Royals. Philadelphia went on to win the title in six games.

For his career, Christenson went 83-71 with a 3.79 ERA over 243 appearances (220 starts). The Phillies reached the playoffs six times in his 11 seasons.

"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."

Said Larry Bowa, who played with Christenson from 1973 to 1981: "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 loved the game and enjoyed every minute of his big league career. He will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family."