Phillies Pitching Prospect Dies Of Cancer At 20

PHILADELPHIA — A minor league player for the Philadelphia Phillies died at just 20 years old.

Corey Phelan, 20, lost a battle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, according to the team.

"The Phillies family is extremely saddened by the tragic passing of Corey Phelan," the team said in a statement. "Corey's positive presence and selflessness influenced everyone around him. While he was incredibly passionate about the game of baseball, his love for his family and his strong faith superseded everything else. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, as well as his teammates and staff who were by his side, providing emotional support throughout the course of his courageous battle with cancer."

Action News reports Phelan was diagnosed with the disease in April when he was 19.

"We are saddened by the passing of Corey Phelan, a prospect in the Phillies organization," Minor League Baseball said in a statement. "Our thoughts are with Corey's family, friends and teammates."

According to ESPN, Phelan made five relief appearances for the Phillies' Florida Complex League team in 2021. He had a 0.93 ERA.