The 17-year old daughter of Mark Budzinski, Toronto Blue Jays' first baseman, died Saturday after a boating accident in Virginia.
Sunday's statement by the team confirmed the death of Julia Budzinski (eldest daughter of Budzinski & Monica). The cause of her death is not yet known.
Ross Atkins (the Blue Jays' executive vice-president of baseball operations, and general manager) said that the Blue Jays are deeply affected by this loss. "I've known Bud for over 25 years, and I have always admired his dedication as a father and husband." Our entire clubhouse loves and respects him and he holds a special place within our hearts.
According to the statement, Budzinski will be absent from the team in order to spend time with his family, which includes his two remaining children.
According to The Washington Post, Budzinski played for the Cincinnati Reds in the past and is currently the Blue Jays' first base manager.
According to The Associated Press, he was unable to continue playing in the third inning of a Blue Jays' game Saturday due to a "personal matter".
According to the Associated Press, both the Blue Jays (and the Tampa Bay Rays) observed a moment in silence in Julia Budzinski’s memory before Sunday's first pitch. A giant screen displayed an image of Julia Budzinski, which was reported by the AP.
WTVR TV of Richmond, Virginia and WFXR TV of Roanoke, Virginia reported that Budzinski was a high school student who died in a tubing accident along the James River.
Representative from Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources stated that a 17-year old girl died after falling off a tube being pulled by boat. The propeller of the boat struck the victim after hitting a wave pushing it onto her.
According to the statement, "The operator immediately leapt into the river to save the victim as did another boat operator."
The department stated that there is no suspicion of foul play and that alcohol was not a factor. They also noted that "lifejackets" were worn.
The condition of the other girl who fell from the tube was not immediately known.
According to the Richmond Times-Dispatch, students from Glen Allen High School where Budzinski was a rising senior gathered on Sunday night for a vigil to her memory. Mark and Monica Budzinski also appeared at the event.
She had the best year. According to the newspaper, Monica Budzinski stated that her daughter had an amazing year at the vigil.
She said that Saturday was her daughter's last day on Earth. It was joyful, laughter, and a great time.
"That's how I want to remember her. And that's what everyone needs. She loved living. She loved the outdoors, sports, and everything. She will live on through you all."
