MILWAUKEE— Former Milwaukee Brewers manager and longtime Major League Baseball figure Phil Garner has died at the age of 76.
Garner, known by the nickname “Scrap Iron,” passed away Saturday after a more than two-year battle with pancreatic cancer, according to a statement from his family. He was surrounded by loved ones.
Garner spent 16 seasons in the majors as a player from 1973 to 1988, earning three All-Star selections while playing for teams including the Oakland Athletics, Pittsburgh Pirates and Houston Astros. He was part of the Pirates’ 1979 World Series championship team and was known for his gritty hard-nosed style of play.
After his playing career, Garner moved into managing and went on to lead the Brewers, Detroit Tigers and Houston Astros. He managed Milwaukee from 1992 to1999 and remains one of the longest-tenured managers in franchise history.
In a statement, the Brewers said Garner was “a very highly respected and beloved individual,” remembered for his leadership, humor and care for others.
The Brewers are saddened to learn of the passing of Phil Garner pic.twitter.com/NLHqhxhm2P
— Milwaukee Brewers (@Brewers) April 12, 2026
