The Phillies are saddened to learn of the passing of Ruly Carpenter, the club’s former owner and president from 1972-81. Under his leadership, the Phillies won three consecutive division titles from 1976-78 and, in 1980, the first World Series championship in franchise history.

“Ruly Carpenter was a consummate professional sports team owner,” said Phillies Managing Partner John Middleton. “A third-generation local businessman, he believed in developing not just your players from within, but also your front office. Ruly was the driving force in promoting both Paul Owens and Dallas Green, and collectively, the three oversaw one of the greatest eras in Phillies history. They built a team anchored by the greatest player and pitcher in Phillies history, Mike Schmidt and Steve Carlton, that won four NL East division titles and Philadelphia’s first World Series championship in 1980. Ruly’s influence has been and will continue to be felt for decades in the Delaware Valley. On behalf of the Buck and Middleton families, I extend my deepest condolences to the Carpenters.”