Philadelphia Phillies prospect Corey Phelan has reportedly passed away

The Philadelphia Phillies‘ run through the postseason has now taken a tragic turn.

Minor league pitcher Corey Phelan has reportedly passed away following a battle with cancer. He was just 20 years old.

Remembering Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Corey Phelan

An undrafted free agent, Phelan had signed with the Phillies in 2020, his professional career on hold due to the pandemic. He was assigned to the team in the Flordia Complex League, getting his start at the lowest level in the minors.

He pitched well when he was able to get on the mound. Phelan allowed just one run on seven hits and four walks over his 9.2 innings, striking out six batters. It appeared as though he had a bright future in the game as a lefty reliever and could move through the ranks relatively quickly.

Unfortunately, his journey was derailed. He had been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, landing on the Injured List as he underwent treatment. As his treatment continued, it was revealed that his cancer had begun to act similarly to leukemia, something that Phelan said his doctors told him they had seen just twice before.

Phelan still made an impact on the Phillies in 2022. He had been able to visit the Phillies clubhouse in May, a surprise visit that had been arranged by then manager Joe Girardi. His battle was a reminder that, although the team had been struggling to begin the season, others have it worse. Yet his positive attitude and personality resonated as he was able to keep looking on the bright side despite his battles and struggles. Seeing what Phelan was going through helped put everything else in perspective.

Philadelphia Phillies minor league pitcher Corey Phelan has reportedly passed away at 20 years old. Our condolences go out to his friends and family.