Phil Garner, the former manager of the Houston Astros and a three-time All-Star, has died at the age of 76. He passed away on Saturday, surrounded by his family, after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer. Garner was known as “Scrap Iron,” a nickname given to him by announcer Milo Hamilton.
Garner’s Playing and Managerial Career
Garner’s career as an infielder spanned 16 years, during which he played for the A’s, Pirates, Astros, Dodgers, and Giants. He earned three All-Star selections during that time. Later, he managed the Brewers, Tigers, and Astros, leading Houston to its first World Series berth in 2005.
Garner was drafted by the Expos in the eighth round in 1970 but didn’t sign. The A’s then took him with the third overall pick of the secondary draft in January 1971. He made his debut with the A’s in 1973.
He was stuck behind Sal Bando at third base and played in only 39 combined games in ’73-74 but by ’75 was entrenched as a starter at second base. He made his first All-Star team in 1976 and hit .261 with eight homers, 74 RBIs and 36 stolen bases that season for Oak.
Tributes to a Respected Figure
Hall of Fame first baseman Jeff Bagwell spoke of Garner’s leadership qualities. “He was competitive. He was honest. He told you the truth. He made you accountable — all the great things that leaders do,” Bagwell said. “I think Gar just did a tremendous job of that. You could see how much he cared about his players, cared about winning and our organization. It was just a pleasure to play for him and be his friend.”
Garner’s Battle with Cancer
Garner was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in February 2024. He underwent numerous radiation and chemotherapy treatments for more than two years. The Astros celebrated him one last time when he threw out the first pitch before a game on April 30, 2025 – his 76th birthday.
Several of his former teammates and players that he managed in Houston were in attendance. They were united in their respect for Garner.
Early Life and Career
Philip Mason Garner was born on April 30, 1949, in Jefferson City, Tenn. He was the son of a Baptist preacher. He grew up in nearby Rutledge and moved to Knoxville after his sophomore year in high school with hopes of getting a baseball scholarship.
He earned a scholarship from the University of Tennessee, where he was a two-time All-SEC performer. Garner’s jersey, No. 18, was retired by the Volunteers in 2009.
Garner’s family released a statement saying, “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.”