(Houston) Bill Virdon, a longtime manager with Houston but who also managed three other clubs, including the Expos, in 1983 and 1984, has died at the age of 90, the Astros announced Tuesday.
In Astros history, no manager has scored as many wins as Virdon. He guided the team from 1975 to 1982, showing a record of 544-522.
He was the manager of the year in the Nationale in 1980.
That year, the Astros were beaten in five games in the League Championship Series, by the Philadelphia Phillies.
Virdon has also been a manager with Pittsburgh and the New York Yankees.
His overall record was 995-921, including returns of 82-80 and 64-67 at the lead of the Expos.
A center fielder from 1955 to 1968, Virdon spent the majority of his career with the Pirates, being part of the World Series champion team in 1960.
“Bill Virdon has been extremely vital to the success of the Astros, guiding the club through our first two forays into the playoffs,” the Astros said in a statement.
“He was respected throughout our sport for his intensity and his knowledge about baseball. We will never forget his contribution. We send our sincere condolences to his wife Shirley, family and friends. ”