The Blue Jays mourn the loss of the coach’s daughter

TORONTO — First base coach Mark Budzinski bids farewell to the Toronto Blue Jays following the death of his daughter.

The team announced the death of Julia Budzinski on Sunday morning.

“The Budzinskis have been part of our Blue Jays family for the past four seasons. This devastating loss will be felt throughout our organization and we mourn with Bud and his family,” said Ross Atkins, executive vice president of baseball operations and general manager of the Blue Jays. “I have known Bud for more than 25 years and my first admiration has always been his dedication as a father and husband.

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“He is loved and respected throughout our clubhouse and holds a special place in all of our hearts.”

Mark Budzinski left the dugout with the Blue Jays early Saturday in the second game of a day-night doubleheader against the Tampa Bay Rays. Manager Charlie Montoyo kept leaving the dugout for the clubhouse throughout the game. Bench coach John Schneider stepped in as coach during Montoyo’s brief absence.

After the 5-11 loss to Tampa, the Blue Jays issued a statement saying there would be no post-game media availability.

The team also closed its clubhouse to reporters as the coaching staff supported Budzinski when he raised a “personal matter”.

This report from The Canadian Press was first published on July 3, 2022.