Oakland A's minor league pitcher Sean Murphy passes away at age 27

The Oakland A's lost a member of their family on Monday, as minor league pitcher Sean Murphy passed away at the age of 27. The A's released the following statement:

Sean Murphy, who played six seasons in the Oakland A's farm system, passed away unexpectedly on Monday in Arizona. He was 27 years old.

"The A's are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Sean Murphy," said Billy Beane, executive vice president of baseball operations for the Oakland Athletics. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends."

Murphy was selected by the A's in the 33rd round of the 2010 First-Year Player Draft. He compiled a 32-32 record and a 4.26 ERA in 105 games, including 81 starts, in six seasons in the A's farm system. Murphy missed the entire 2015 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery on his right elbow Sept. 26, 2014. He won 11 games in 2012 and 10 games in 2013 and reached as high as Triple-A in 2014 when he made seven starts for Sacramento.

Murphy hadn't pitched in a game since 2014. After missing 2015 to Tommy John surgery, he was suspended in February for 50 games due to a second positive test for a drug of abuse.

Here a few statements and memorials from various teammates and media members:

- "The 6'6'' right-hander was a popular teammate and well regarded for his coachability and willingness to take on new challenges." - Melissa Lockard of Oakland Clubhouse

So saddened to hear of Sean Murphy's unexpected death, far too young. I remember how excited he was to get surprise start late in spring '16

— Susan Slusser (@susanslusser) April 26, 2016

Saddened by the news. RIP Sean Murphy, such a positive and welcoming person. Gone too soon

— Matt Olson (@mattolson21) April 26, 2016

So sad to hear about the passing of Sean Murphy. My thoughts are with him and his loved ones.

— AJ Griffin (@griffin_64) April 26, 2016

Sad to hear about the passing of an old teammate in Sean Murphy. It was a pleasure knowing you Rest In Peace Murph.

— Michael Choice (@VinnyChoice) April 26, 2016

Leaving this life way to early you were a great friend and teammate. May Angels lead you in RIP Murph #d3brothers

— Tucker Healy (@THealy5) April 26, 2016

The A’s are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Sean Murphy. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. pic.twitter.com/my5KSl0CpB

— Oakland Athletics (@Athletics) April 26, 2016

Please keep Sean and the Murphy family in your thoughts today.