Phil Regan, a decorated Major League Baseball pitcher and longtime coach whose professional career spanned seven decades, died on Wednesday at age 89, according to reports confirmed by his attorney. Regan’s passing marks the conclusion of a storied life in baseball that began with his professional signing in 1956.
Known affectionately by teammates as “The Vulture” for his uncanny ability to record wins as a relief pitcher, Regan’s peak came during a standout 1966 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers. That year, he earned his only All-Star selection, leading the National League with 48 appearances and 21 saves while finishing with a dominant 14-1 record and a 1.62 ERA.
Over a 13-year playing career, Regan accumulated 96 wins and 92 saves while pitching for the Detroit Tigers, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, and Dodgers. Following his retirement as a player, he transitioned into a lengthy coaching and scouting career, serving six major league organizations. He notably managed the Baltimore Orioles during the 1995 season, leading them to a 71-73 record.
Regan remained active in the game well into his later years, serving as the New York Mets’ interim pitching coach in 2019. In recent years, he made headlines for a legal dispute involving the Mets, in which he alleged age discrimination and wrongful termination following his tenure with the club.