Lee Elia, Former Cubs and Phillies Manager, Passes Away
The baseball world mourns the loss of Lee Elia, who left a legacy of more than five decades as a player, coach, and manager. Elia, known for his time with the Chicago Cubs and the Philadelphia Phillies, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 87, according to the Phillies on Thursday.
Elia, who began his professional career as an infielder, signed with the Phillies in 1958. During his brief stint as a player, he also defended the colors of the Chicago White Sox and the Cubs. In 95 games played between the 1966 and 1968 seasons, Elia recorded a batting average of .203, with 3 home runs and 25 RBIs.
His true mark, however, he left as a manager and coach. His first opportunity as a manager came in 1982 with the Cubs, at the age of 44. Although his time with the Cubs lasted two seasons, with a record of 127-158, he is remembered for a controversial reaction towards the fans at the beginning of the 1983 season.
Subsequently, he managed the Phillies during the 1987 and 1988 seasons, achieving a record of 111-42.
During his extensive coaching career, Elia was also the third base coach for the Phillies during the 1980 championship season.
Phillies Statement
