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Phil Garner cause of death: What we know about the ex-MLB player and manager
TL;DR
Phil Garner, a former MLB player and manager, passed away at 76 after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer. He was known for his time with the Pirates and Astros, winning a World Series and managing multiple teams.
Whether it was his scrappy mentality as a World Series champion with the Pirates or his franchise-first pennant as Astros manager, Phil Garner was a mainstay in baseball over the past five decades.
On Sunday, Garner's family announced that the three-time All-Star and former MLB manager died peacefully on Saturday at 76 years old.
Garner — who played 16 seasons in MLB with the A’s, Pirates, Astros, Dodgers and Giants and also managed the Brewers, Tigers and Astros — had been battling pancreatic cancer for the past two years.
His family said in a statement on Garner's death:
"Phil Garner passed away peacefully last night, April 11, surrounded by family and love after a two-plus-year battle with pancreatic cancer. Phil never lost his signature spark of life he was so well known for or his love for baseball which was with him until the end. Special thanks to the Houston Medical Center, MD Anderson, Baylor St. Lukes and all the Doctors and Nurses for their excellent care and support."
Garner was diagnosed with cancer back in February of 2024.
The Pirates reacted to the news with a tribute on social media.
It is with a heavy heart that we confirm the passing of former Pirates infielder Phil Garner.
"Scrap Iron” was a beloved member of the Pirates family as he spent five of his 16 Major League seasons playing with the Pirates (1977-1981), capturing a World Series championship in… pic.twitter.com/qqNnVVGCqv
— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) April 12, 2026
As did the Tigers:
The Tigers mourn the passing of former manager Phil Garner and share our condolences with his family and loved ones.
Garner, a 3x All-Star and World Series Champion during his 16-year playing career, went on to a successful 15-year big league managerial career including 2000-02… pic.twitter.com/gbXSAvnAx8
— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) April 12, 2026
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Phil Garner cause of death: What we know about the ex-MLB player and manager
Q&A
What was the cause of Phil Garner's death?
Phil Garner died from complications related to pancreatic cancer after battling the disease for over two years.
How old was Phil Garner when he passed away?
Phil Garner was 76 years old at the time of his death.
Which teams did Phil Garner play for in his MLB career?
Phil Garner played for the A’s, Pirates, Astros, Dodgers, and Giants during his 16-season MLB career.
