Full Breakdown
Former MLB All-Star Phil “The Vulture” Regan Dies at 89
7/10/2026, 6:17:49 PM
Death Announcement and Confirmation
Phil Regan, a former Major League Baseball pitcher and longtime coach, died at age 89 on a Wednesday. His attorney confirmed the death to ESPN; a cause of death has not been disclosed.
Playing Career Highlights
Regan made his MLB debut in 1960 with the Detroit Tigers and went on to pitch for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, and Chicago White Sox over a 13-year span. He earned an All-Star selection in 1966 while with the Dodgers, posting 21 saves and 14 wins to help the team win the National League pennant. The nickname “The Vulture” stemmed from his habit of collecting extra-inning victories. After a trade to Chicago in 1968, Regan recorded a 2.20 ERA, 1.047 WHIP, 25 saves and a 10-5 win-loss record in 68 games. Overwork in 1969 led to a sharp rise in his ERA, and by 1970 he logged nine blown saves. He finished his playing days with the White Sox in 1972. Regan’s career totals include a 96-81 record, a 3.84 ERA, and 92 saves in 551 appearances.
Coaching Tenure and Late-Career Role
Following retirement, Regan managed the Baltimore Orioles for one season (sources differ on whether it was 1994 or 1995). He served as pitching coach for the Seattle Mariners, Chicago Cubs (1997-1998), and New York Mets. In 2019, at age 82, the Mets named him interim pitching coach after the dismissal of Dave Eiland; he retired after that season.
Tributes and Reactions
Fans and former colleagues posted condolences on social media, describing Regan as “a true grinder who gave his all for the Mets” and noting his long-standing dedication to the game. The article also observed that of the 41 players on the 1969 Cubs roster, only 17 remain living.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources disagree on the year Regan managed the Orioles (1994 vs. 1995). No official cause of death has been released, leaving that detail unconfirmed.
