Major League Baseball said goodbye to one of its most well-liked and successful executives on Wednesday, as the Philadelphia Phillies announced the death of longtime chairman and president David Montgomery. He was 72.
A Philly native who began working for the team in 1971 and went on to oversee both the opening of Citizens Bank Park and the Phillies' 2008 World Series title, Montgomery began battling cancer in 2014 but returned as a behind-the-scenes influence on the organization's front office a year later. Now, in the wake of his death, eve current and retired players to other MLB teams are chiming in with condolences.
"The sadness across baseball, over the passing of one of its most beloved citizens, Phillies chairman David Montgomery, is almost indescribable," The Athletic's Jayson Stark tweeted Wednesday. "Baseball has never had a classier, more dignified, more respected, more upbeat ambassador than him."
Completely crushed by the news of the passing of David Montgomery. Thoughts and prayers are with Lyn and rest of his family. David was the best human I have met in my life. Knew everyone and remembered everyone! We as the @Phillies organization lost our heart and soul! #ripdavid
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