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Houston Astros Mourn Passing of Former Player & Manager Phil Garner
TL;DR
Phil Garner, former player and manager of the Houston Astros, has passed away at 76 after battling pancreatic cancer. He was instrumental in the team's history, leading them to their first World Series appearance in 2005 and playing a key role during his seven seasons with the team from 1981 to 1987.
CHICAGO, IL - CIRCA 1985: Phil Garner #3 of the Houston Astros bats against the Chicago Cubs during an Major League Baseball game circa 1985 at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois. Garner played for the Astros from 1981-87. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Houston Astros released the following statement on former player and manager Phil Garner, who passed away yesterday after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 76 years old:
“Phil Garner had a tremendous impact on the Houston Astros as both a player and manager. On the field, he spent seven seasons with the Astros (1981-87) and was a part of two postseason teams (1981, 1986). As a manager, he led the Astros to their first World Series appearance in 2005, famously rallying that club from a 15-30 start to earn a postseason berth, and, ultimately, the National League pennant. In his four seasons as manager (2004-07), the Astros were 272-252 (.524) with two postseason berths (2004-05). In 2004, his Astros fell just one win shy of reaching the World Series. As a player, Phil earned the nickname “Scrap Iron” due to his hard-nosed style of play. Off the field, he was an extremely popular figure around baseball, known for his wit and engaging personality. Everyone loved “Garr.”
From Astros Owner and Chairman Jim Crane:
“On behalf of the Astros, Whitney and I send our heartfelt condolences to Phil’s wife, Carol, their children and to his many friends, fans and admirers. Phil Garner’s contributions to the Houston Astros, the city of Houston and to the game of baseball will not be forgotten.”
Prior to becoming a manager, Garner played 16 seasons (1973-88) as an infielder in the Major Leagues with Oakland (1973-76), Pittsburgh (1977-81), Houston (1981-87), Los Angeles (1987) and San Francisco (1988). A three-time All-Star, he played in 1,860 games in his career with 109 HR and 225 stolen bases. He was a key member of the 1979 World Champion Pirates team, hitting .500 (12×24) in the World Series and .417 (5×12) in the NLCS with a HR.
In addition to his tenure as Astros skipper, Garner also served as manager of the Milwaukee Brewers (1992-99) and Detroit Tigers (2000-02).
Q&A
What were Phil Garner's contributions to the Houston Astros as a player and manager?
Phil Garner played for the Astros from 1981 to 1987 and was part of two postseason teams, later managing the team to its first World Series appearance in 2005.
How did Phil Garner earn the nickname 'Scrap Iron'?
Phil Garner earned the nickname 'Scrap Iron' due to his hard-nosed style of play during his time as a player.
What was Phil Garner's record as the manager of the Houston Astros?
As the manager from 2004 to 2007, Phil Garner had a record of 272 wins and 252 losses, leading the team to two postseason berths.
