Commissioner of Baseball Robert D. Manfred, Jr. issued the following statement regarding the passing of former American League President Dr. Gene Budig, the American League President from 1994-1999, who was 81:

“Following his accomplished career in academia, Gene Budig became a friend to many in Baseball. Dr. Budig took great pride in his role as American League President, and continued to be in the game as part-owner of the Charleston RiverDogs. We appreciate his impact on students, his service to the Air National Guard, and his lifelong connection to our National Pastime. On behalf of Major League Baseball, I send my deepest condolences to his wife Gretchen, their family, and his friends throughout our game.”