The Blue Jays announced Sunday that first base coach Mark “Bud” Budzinski has taken a leave of absence following the death of his daughter, Julia.
Julia, the eldest daughter of Mark and his wife Monica, died Saturday at the age of 17, according to the team. Toronto general manager and EVP of baseball operations Ross Atkins offered his condolences to Mark, Monica and their children Josh and Lily in a statement released Sunday morning.
“The Budzinskis have been part of our Blue Jays family over the last four seasons. This devastating loss is felt by our entire organization and we grieve alongside Bud and his family,” Atkins said.