Yankees Mourn Passing Of Billy Connors

Billy Connors.

Former Yankees pitching coach Billy Connors died on Monday at the age of 76.

Connors was the Yankees pitching coach in 1989, 1990, 1994, 1995, and on an interim basis in 2000 when Mel Stottlemyre was on medical leave, and VP of player personnel from 1996 to 2012.



Yankees Managing General Partner Hal Steinbrenner said in a statement, “The Yankees organization mourns the passing of Billy Connors, who was a close and trusted friend of my family for many years. Since joining the Yankees at the conclusion of the 1988 season, Billy contributed to the organization in countless ways over his long career as a pitching coach, executive and advisor. On behalf of the Yankees and the Steinbrenner family, I extend our deepest condolences to Billy’s family, friends and loved ones.”

Connors pitched for the Cubs in 1966, and the Mets the following two seasons. In his 26 Major League games, Connors worked in 43 innings and posted an 0–2 won/lost mark and an ERA of 7.53.

After he retired, he became the Mets' batting practice pitcher in 1971, and then their minor league pitching instructor from 1972–76 and Philadelphia Phillies from 1977–79.

In addition to the Yankees, he also served as pitching coach with the Kansas City Royals (1980–81), Cubs (1982–86; 1991–93), and Seattle Mariners (1987–88).