Phillies Pitching Legend Passes
Larry Christenson, Reliable Phillies Workhorse And 1980 World Series Champion, Dies At 72
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Key Points
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Grand slam on September 27, 1977 against the Chicago Cubs helped clinch the Phillies' NL East title, and Christenson is tied for the franchise lead in pitcher home runs with 11.
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In his final season, the Phillies won the National League pennant in 1983 with Christenson on the staff before the World Series run.
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Christenson logged more than 200 innings three times in his Phillies career, doing so in 1977, 1978 and 1982.
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He was part of the 1979 burgundy uniform era, starting on May 19, 1979 when the Phillies wore burgundy uniforms—the
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Christenson pitched 220 career starts for the Phillies, ranking ninth in franchise history for a pitcher.
Larry Christenson, a stalwart pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies who helped bring the franchise its first World Series title in 1980, has died at age 72. TSN reported that Christenson died while on a fishing trip with family and friends in Washington state.
Christenson spent his entire 11-year career with Philadelphia after being drafted third overall in 1972. He compiled 220 starts, posting an 83-71 record with a 3.79 ERA, including a career-best 19 wins in 1977 and a shutout six innings in the 1980 NLCS that helped the Phillies reach the World Series.
A Three-Decade Philadelphia Anchor
Christenson arrived in Philadelphia as the third overall draft pick in 1972 and never left. ESPN confirmed he pitched 220 career starts for the Phillies, ranking ninth in franchise history. His 83 wins and 71 losses spanned three straight NL East titles and the 1980 championship season.
The right-hander logged more than 200 innings three times — in 1977, 1978, and 1982. His best season came in 1977 when he won 19 games, establishing himself as the team's workhorse. Christenson also tied the Phillies record for pitcher home runs with 11 across his career.
The Grand Slam That Clinched a Title
On September 27, 1977, Christenson hit a grand slam against the Chicago Cubs that helped clinch the Phillies' NL East crown. The moment showcased his rare power as a pitcher and remains etched in Philadelphia sports history. Two years earlier, in 1976, he hit two home runs in a single game against the Mets.
A Postseason Moment That Defined His Legacy
Christenson's 1980 postseason performance cemented his place in Phillies folklore. He threw six innings of shutout relief in a crucial National League Championship Series game. That steady presence helped propel Philadelphia to the World Series, where the Phillies won their first title in franchise history.
Remembered as a Clubhouse Steadying Force
After his career ended, Christenson remained beloved in the Philadelphia area, supporting local charities and Phillies Charities, Inc. Teammates remembered him as a reliable friend and steady presence in the clubhouse. His endurance on the mound and consistent performances made him a fixture of Phillies baseball for over a decade.
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