“TT”, as Tony Taylor was affectionally known, was a very kind, friendly and appreciative human being. He was one of the most respected players to wear a Phillies uniform and one of the most popular players ever among fans.
It was an honor to call him a friend, a relationship that began in 1964. He constantly smiled and was always upbeat. He’ll be sorely missed by everyone at the Phillies family, his family and fans. Condolences to his wife, Clara. RIP, Tony Taylor.
Tony attended every Toyota Phillies Alumni Weekend since his 2002 Phillies Wall of Fame induction. Always greeted everyone with hugs. Every former player loved seeing him. He shared a lot of stories that ended with laughter.
He suffered a series of strokes in his hotel room after leaving Citizens Bank Park during last August’s Alumni Weekend. Was hospitalized and eventually able to return to Miami on a private plane provided by the Phillies.
He had a routine every time he stepped into the batter’s box, bow his head, cross himself and kiss the barrel of the bat. I can still see it.
We lost #8 today after losing #9 (Mike Ryan) last week. Baseball heaven’s gain.
More Remembrances
“Tony Taylor helped me so much in my first year in the big-league camp. He taught me how to play the game the right way, how to act like a big leaguer. Tony, Ruben Amaro Sr., Cookie Rojas, and Bobby Wine were all so instrumental in my success at the major league level. Rest In Peace TT,” Larry Bowa.
“So sad. Tony was one of the nicest people you could meet. Always enjoyed being around him. Condolences to his lovely wife, Clara and his family,” Mike Schmidt.
“Played against him for many years and then got to be around him when I was traded to the Phils. Learned so much about the game from him. He was the ultimate professional in every way. A solid teammate and a person with no downside,” Tim McCarver.
“TT was a special, wonderful human being, one of my favorite players. Solid hitting and fielding. Really helped the younger players a lot, a great example of how to conduct yourself as a big leaguer. On a personal level, he was always super nice to our two young sons. Our entire family sends condolences to Tony’s family,” Ruly Carpenter.
“He taught me a lot about the game. Was always such a pleasure to see him on Alumni weekends,” Bob Boone.
“Tony was a great teammate, a true professional. He loved the Phillies, loved playing, and loved coaching. He was one of Gene Mauch’s favorite players. Never heard anyone say a nasty word about him,” Bobby Wine.
Text originally published at Phillies Insider on July 16, 2020 as “Remembering TT” and republished here by permission of the author.
MATT VEASEY 