Pirates Mourn The Passing Of Phil Garner

On behalf of the Garner family, the Pittsburgh Pirates confirmed the passing of former infielder Phil Garner today in the Woodlands, TX. Garner was 76 years old.

“Phil Garner was a fierce competitor, a respected leader, and a cherished part of the Pirates family,” said Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting. “His contributions to the 1979 World Series championship team will forever be part of Pirates history. We always appreciated welcoming Phil back to Pittsburgh, and it was evident how deeply this city, this team, his teammates, and our fans meant to him.

“He will be remembered not only for the grit, passion, and heart he brought to the game, but also for the way he carried himself as a devoted family man and respected member of the baseball community.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Carol, his sons, Eric and Ty, his daughter, Bethany, his six grandchildren, and the entire Garner family during this difficult time. Phil will be deeply missed.”

Garner spent five of his 16 Major League seasons playing with the Pirates (1977-1981), capturing a World Series championship in 1979. He batted .417 in the N.L. Championship Series that year and .500 (12-for-24) in seven games against the Baltimore Orioles in the Fall Classic.

Nicknamed “Scrap-Iron” for his gritty and hard-nosed style of play, Garner hit a career-high 17 home runs in his first year with the Bucs in 1977 and was selected to the National League All-Star team in 1980 and 1981.

Following his playing days, Garner managed the Milwaukee Brewers for eight seasons (1992-1999), the Detroit Tigers for three (2000-02) and the Houston Astros for four (2004-07). He won 985 games during his managerial career, advancing to the World Series in 2005 (lost to the White Sox).

Garner is survived by his wife, Carol, his sons, Eric and Ty, his daughter, Bethany, and six grandchildren.