Phillies president David Montgomery takes leave of absence, Pat Gillick assumes role

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Philadelphia Phillies President David Montgomery is taking a medical leave of absence, the team announced Thursday.

Montgomery is recovering from a jaw cancer surgery which occurred on May 19th.

During the leave, Pat Gillick, the club's former General Manager and its current Senior Advisor to the President/General Manager, will assume David's responsibilities.

"I have the highest regard for David Montgomery, as does everyone in our industry. I am glad to be of assistance to the Phillies," Gillick said in the statement.

Phillies officials say they "look forward to Montgomery returning to his roles as General Partner, President and Chief Executive Officer "when he is fully recovered."