Phil Regan, 89, Former MLB Pitcher and Coach, Passes Away

A 13‑Season pitching career

Phil Regan played 13 seasons in Major League Baseball, beginning with the Detroit Tigers in 1960. He later joined the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he earned his sole All‑Star selection. Regan’s time with the Cubs and White Sox capped a career that ended after the 1972 season. Across 551 games he posted a 3.84 ERA, reflecting a durable stint on the mound.

Peak season with the Dodgers

The 1966 campaign stands out as Regan’s best year, highlighted by a microscopic 1.62 ERA. That season he recorded a 14‑1 win‑loss record and notched 21 saves, both notable achievements. He also appeared in 48 games, a league‑leading number, solidifying his role as a key reliever. Despite the Dodgers winning the National League crown, they fell to the Baltimore Orioles in the World Series.

Coaching legacy and Olympic gold

After retiring, Regan quickly transitioned to coaching, spending nearly five decades in various baseball roles. He managed the Orioles in 1995, guiding them to a 71‑73 mark and a third‑place finish in the AL East. Regan also served as head coach at Grand Valley State and later worked with the New York Mets in 2019. His coaching résumé includes a stint on Team USA’s staff for the 2000 Sydney Olympics, where the U.S. team captured gold under Tommy Lasorda.

Impact on baseball community

News of Regan’s death at age 89 was confirmed by ESPN’s Jeff Passan, prompting tributes from across the sport. He leaves behind a record of steady pitching play and a long‑standing influence in player development. Regan’s career spanned three decades of play and four decades of mentorship, touching countless young arms. His passing marks the end of an era for a man who contributed to baseball both on the field and in the dugout.