MLB All-Star and Manager Dies After Battle With Pancreatic Cancer
MLB All-Star Phil Garner has died at the age of 76 after a "two-plus-year" battle with pancreatic cancer. He was known for winning a World Series with the Pirates, and for managing the Astros during their World Series run. As reported by the New York Post, he tragically passed away on Saturday, April 11.His family released a statement on the MLB website confirming his death. "Phil Garner passed away peacefully last night... Surrounded by family and love." They mentioned he "never lost his signature spark of life" and was jovial up until his death. They also mentioned his love for baseball. Their statement ended by thanking the Houston Medical Center along with "all the Doctors and Nurses for their excellent care and support."Garner was known by his nickname "Scrap Iron". He got the nickname from Hall of Fame announcer Milo Hamilton, who noticed that "nothing seemed to bother him".Garner had a long and storied career in the MLB. He played most notably for the Oakland A's, Pittsburgh Pirates, and the Houston Astros. He was also most well known during his managerial career for his stint with the Astros, where he lead them to the World Series.As a player, he had a .260 career average, with over 1,500 hits, and 109 home runs. As a manager, he had a 277-252 record, with a clean 13-13 display in the playoffs.
The loss of the MLB All-Star has been mourned by the baseball community on social media. In the response to a report of his death on X, people posted their condolences.One commentor wrote "Put him in the team hall of fame!!", whilst another wrote "Another part of my childhood gone, RIP Scrap Iron." People also praised his managing career, with one writing "RIP Scrap Iron, Loved your old school brand of managing!"Other commentors remembered Scrap Iron for his World Series win. "I'll always remember him as a member of the We Are Family WS champ Pirates. #RIP", one commentor wrote. Another said, "A life fully dedicated to the game at every level... rest well, Phil Garner."This is an absolutely tragic loss. May Phil Garner rest in peace.
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