Former MLB Pitcher Rheal Cormier Dies From Cancer

Rheal Cormier, who was a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1991-2007, has died from cancer. He was 53 years old.

The former relief pitcher died on Monday after a long battle with cancer. The Philadelphia Phillies released a statement announcing the death of the former pitcher on Monday evening. In a tweet, the Phillies wrote, “We are saddened to learn of the passing of former pitcher Rheal Cormier after a courageous battle with cancer.” Cormier played with the Phillies from 2001-2006.

Teammate Jim Thome shared fond words about Cormier in the team’s statement. “Rheal was one of the most vibrant people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing,” Thome said. “Frenchy was the kind of guy who would do anything for you, and I’m lucky to have called him my friend for many years. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.”

Cormier became a U.S. Citizen in 2004 and retired from baseball in 2007. The relief pitcher played for various teams including the Montreal Expos, Boston Red Sox, Cincinnati Reds, and the St. Louis Cardinals. The former pitcher had a career ERA of 4.03 and pitched in 683 games throughout his career.