Fred Claire and Jeff Fellenzer had stayed in touch over the years. Their bond was formed 50 years ago on the day Rick Monday saved an American flag at Dodger Stadium.
Columnist Bill Shaikin reflects on the life and principles of former Los Angeles Dodgers general manager Fred Claire following his death on October 6, 2026. Shaikin highlights Claire's enduring mentorship of USC professor Jeff Fellenzer, who worked as a young message-board assistant in 1976 when Rick Monday rescued an American flag.
Shaikin praises Claire's core leadership qualities, which emphasized accountability, transparency, and treating colleagues with respect. The column notes that Claire co-taught sports business classes at USC with Fellenzer, always acknowledged his executive mistakes like trading Pedro Martínez, and maintained honest relationships with fans and media.
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