Phil Itzoe was never the life of the party, but for more than four decades he was the heart and soul of the Orioles’ traveling party, every bit as much of an icon in his profession as any Hall of Famer who ever wore the team’s uniform. The team’s traveling secretary passed away Feb. 10 after an extended illness.

He was close to being a nameless and faceless part of the organization, which was just the way he liked it. But make no mistake. He had no peers in his profession. Nobody ever did it better. Nobody. Ever.

Itzoe worked for the Orioles for 45 years, the last 41 as the person who coordinated every aspect of the team’s travel -- players and front office alike -- from spring training through the winter meetings. It is the kind of job that really has no offseason. It is safe to say anybody who traveled with the Orioles during his reign (and it was just that, his reign) was bailed out of a difficult situation by Itzoe somewhere along the line. Chances are, more than once.

Having traveled with the Orioles for almost 30 years, I can attest to the universal respect and admiration Itzoe commanded from others in his business, as well as many hundreds of media members who often infringed on his kindness. I don’t know that Phil ever denied a request for help in making travel arrangements, and we all got the same treatment he gave Hall of Fame players.

About 25 years ago, Sports Illustrated put together its version of a true All-Star organization, from top to bottom, and Itzoe was the only traveling secretary who got serious consideration. The respect of his peers was further demonstrated a few years later when he was the first recipient of the Donald Davidson Award, which is presented annually to the person recognized as the best in the business.

The Orioles have lost one of their true icons -- and those of us privileged to know Phil Itzoe have lost a great friend.

Posted February 11, 2010