_SAD NIGHT_
Oakland Athletics’ Lawrence Butler Confirms the Death of His Father, Larry Butler Sr.
Oakland, CA – The Oakland Athletics organization is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Larry Butler Sr., father of outfielder Lawrence Butler.
_Statement from Lawrence Butler_
“My dad was my everything. He taught me to love baseball and to never give up on my dreams. I’ll miss him forever.”
_Athletics’ Reaction_
– “Our hearts go out to Lawrence and his family.” – Manager Mark Kotsay
– “We’re here for Lawrence during this difficult time.” – GM David Forst
_MLB Community Reacts_
– “Condolences to Lawrence Butler and his family.” – MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred
– “Praying for Lawrence and his loved ones.” – former Athletics player Reggie Jackson
_Larry Butler Sr.’s Legacy_
A devoted father and husband, Larry Butler Sr. played a pivotal role in Lawrence’s baseball journey, coaching him through youth baseball and beyond.
_Funeral Arrangements_
– Viewing: October 17, 4-8 PM, at Oakland Cathedral
– Funeral Service: October 18, 11 AM, at Oakland Cathedral
– Burial: October 18, 2 PM, at Oakland Memorial Cemetery
_Charitable Donations_
In lieu of flowers, the Butler family requests donations to the “Larry Butler Sr. Memorial Fund,” supporting youth baseball initiatives.
_Support for Lawrence Butler_
– The Athletics will hold a moment of silence before their next game
– MLB players will wear a tribute patch in honor of Larry Butler Sr.
_Related Stories_
– “Lawrence Butler’s Journey to the MLB”
– “Athletics Players Who Have Lost Loved Ones”
– “MLB Community Rallies Around Butler Family”
_Expert Insights_
– Analysis by ESPN’s Buster Olney on Lawrence Butler’s emotional response
– MLB Network’s Chris Russo on MLB players coping with loss
_Video Content_
– Lawrence Butler’s emotional tribute to his father
– Athletics players react to Larry Butler Sr.’s passing
_Audio Content_
– Podcast discussion with Lawrence Butler on his father’s influence
– Interview with Mark Kotsay on supporting Lawrence Butler
_Fan Engagement_
– Share condolences for Lawrence Butler and his family
– Vote in our poll: How can MLB support players through tragedy?
– Join discussion on Reddit’s r/Athletics
_Upcoming Schedule_
– Athletics vs. Angels (Oct 23)
– Athletics vs. Astros (Nov 6)
The Oakland Athletics organization and fans worldwide extend their deepest condolences to Lawrence Butler and his family during this difficult time.
_Lawrence Butler’s Career Stats_
– 2022 MLB Draft selection (1st round, 15th overall)
– .285 batting average, 10 HRs, 35 RBIs in rookie season
– 2023 Rookie of the Year candidate
_Larry Butler Sr.’s Background_
– Devoted father and husband
– Youth baseball coach
_Athletics’ Family Ties_
– Lawrence Butler (OF) and mother, Lisa Butler
– Sean Murphy (C) and wife, Alissa Murphy
– Tony Kemp (2B) and mother, Karen Kemp
_Follow the Athletics_
– Oakland Athletics: @athletics on Instagram and Twitter
– Lawrence Butler: @lawrencebutler on Instagram and Twitter
