At 80 years old, Phillies icon Larry Bowa continues to display remarkable passion and dedication to baseball, remaining an active presence at spring training. Six decades after arriving as a little-known, undersized, and undrafted shortstop, Bowa still brings the same relentless drive that helped shape his legendary career.
When Bowa first attended spring training as a 20-year-old, former Phillies manager Gene Mauch admired his defensive skills but questioned his hitting ability. Despite early doubts including a rough professional debut in which he struck out four times against a young Nolan Ryan Bowa quickly proved his value. By the end of his first minor-league season, he had emerged as one of the organization’s top prospects, hitting .313 with 70 runs scored and 24 stolen bases, earning a promotion to Triple-A.
Bowa went on to build a decorated 20-year playing career that featured five All-Star selections, two Gold Gloves, a third-place MVP finish in 1978, and a key role in delivering the Phillies’ first World Series championship in 1980. He finished with 2,191 career hits, including 1,798 with Philadelphia, placing him among the franchise’s all-time leaders in multiple statistical categories. He also played a historic role in several franchise milestones, including appearing in the final game at Connie Mack Stadium, recording the first hit at Veterans Stadium, managing the team’s final game at the Vet, and leading the Phillies into their first contest at Citizens Bank Park.
Even decades after his playing days, Bowa refuses to fade into a ceremonial role. Coaches and players alike praise his unmatched work ethic, energy, and baseball knowledge. Phillies infield instructor Bobby Dickerson described Bowa as still performing at a level comparable to many current big-league coaches, noting that the 80-year-old continues to outwork colleagues significantly younger than him.
Bowa credits the Phillies organization for allowing him to remain involved with the game he has devoted his life to. He continues to serve as a senior advisor to the general manager while also assisting with infield instruction and scouting throughout the minor leagues. Over 40 of his 61 years in professional baseball have been spent with Philadelphia, though his career also included coaching stints with historic franchises such as the Yankees and Dodgers, along with international coaching experience.
During spring training, Bowa spends most of his time working directly with players on the field, sharing defensive expertise with current stars like Alec Bohm, Trea Turner, Bryson Stott, and Bryce Harper. Known earlier in his career for his fiery personality, Bowa admits he has mellowed somewhat with age, but teammates and coaches say his competitive edge and commitment to excellence remain intact.
For Bowa, baseball has always been more than a career it has been a lifelong passion and even at 80, he continues to inspire players and coaches with his relentless enthusiasm and deep knowledge of the game.
