Less than a month after the passing of Harry Kalas, the Phillies have lost another prominent figure in franchise history.

Former Danny Ozark died this morning at his home in Vero Beach, Fla. He was 85 years of age. In his first five years, Ozark guided the Phillies to 71, 80, 86, 101 and 101 wins. The Phils won three consecutive National League Eastern Division titles starting in 1976, a record unmatched by any other Phillies manager.

Ozark was named Phils manager on Nov. 1, 1972; Dallas Green replaced Ozark during the 1979 season.

"I was saddened by the news of Danny's passing," Phillies Hall of Fame third baseman Mike Schmidt said. "He was a good friend, my first major league manager, played a major role in early years my career, and was instrumental in building us into prominence in the mid-1970's. He brought a wealth of baseball experience from his years with the Dodgers to Philadelphia and we were fortunate to have him as our leader throughout that time. My wife and I extend our deepest sympathy to Ginny and the Ozark family."