TORONTO (AP) — Toronto Blue Jays first base coach Mark Budzinski will step away from the team following the death of his eldest daughter, Julia.
“The Budzinskis have been a part of our Blue Jays family over the past four seasons,” general manager Ross Atkins said in a statement on Sunday. “This devastating loss is felt by our entire organization and we mourn with Bud and his family. I have known Bud for over 25 years and have always admired his commitment as a father and husband. He is loved and respected by our entire clubhouse and holds a special place in all our hearts.”
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Budzinski and manager Charlie Montoyo leave the dugout in the third inning of the second game of Saturday’s doubleheader against Tampa Bay. The Blue Jays’ clubhouse was closed after the 11-5 loss.
Budzinski played four games for Cincinnati in 2003 and retired in 2005. After managing in Cleveland’s minor league system, he joined the then Indian major league staff in 2017. Toronto hired Budzinski in November 2018.
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