THE 17-year-old daughter of Toronto Blue Jays’ first-base coach Mark Budzinski has died after a tragic tubing accident over the weekend.
Julia Budzinski, eldest daughter of Mark and his wife Monica, died on Saturday while tubing on the James River.
Julia reportedly fell from her tube and into the river, according to the local CBS outlet.
Further details have not been publicized.
She attended Glen Allen High School in Virginia where she played multiple sports, according to reports.
The high school principal, Reginald Davenport, tweeted the news.
“It’s with a heavy heart to announce that the GAHS family is dealing with the (loss) of life of a student — Julia Budzinski,” the tweet reads.
A vigil was held Sunday evening at 7.30pm where students and community members gathered to honor and remember Julia.
The teen played varsity soccer and varsity volleyball, according to the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
The outlet also reports that Julia participated in several clubs, organizations, and honor societies.
Most read in The Sun
Mark Budzinski has stepped away from the Toronto Blue Jays to be with his family, including his wife Monica, and children, Josh and Lily.
The coach, currently in his fourth year with the team, left during the third inning of Saturday’s game.
A moment of silence was held on the field to honor Julia’s memory before the Blue Jays’ game on Sunday.
Many Blue Jays players could be seen wiping away tears during the emotional moment.
Ross Atkins, the Blue Jays’ general manager and executive vice president of baseball operations, released a statement on behalf of the organization.
“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.
“I have known Bud for more than 25 years and have always admired his commitment as a dad and husband first. He is loved and well-respected by our entire clubhouse and holds a special place in all our hearts.”
Blue Jays manager Charlie Montoyo also offered his condolences, reading a statement following the team’s game on Sunday.
“Everyone in our clubhouse is thinking of Bud, and I know you are, too, of his wife and their children,” Montoyo said.
Read More On The Sun
“This tragedy reminds us what’s important in life. As a father and husband myself, my heart breaks for Bud and his family. They are in our thoughts and our prayers.
“Thank you for your understanding. Think of Bud and his family.”
