Phillips, Lefty

Harold Ross Phillips

Phillips managed the California Angels from 1969 to 1971, and compiled a career record of 222-225. In 1971, when the Angels were hit hard by injuries, and the team was struggling with young players, Lefty memorably remarked of his squad: "Our phenoms ain't phenominating."

Birth and Death Dates:
b. June 16, 1919 - d. June 10, 1972

Career Highlights:
Phillips began his career in professional baseball in 1939 by hurling for Bisbee of the Arizona-Texas League. He pitched in only five professional games, however, before he was forced to retire because of arm problems. Lefty then became a scout, first for the St. Louis Browns and then for the Cincinnati Reds, before joining the Brooklyn Dodgers organization in 1952. During his tenure with the Dodgers, he was credited with signing Don Drysdale and other key members of the organization in the 1950s and 1960s. In 1965, he became the pitching coach for the Dodgers, now relocated to Los Angeles, and mentored Sandy Koufax and the other Dodger pitchers.

In 1968, Phillips left the Dodgers and joined the California Angels as director of player personnel. In May 1969, he became the Angels' manager, replacing Bill Rigney, who had managed the club since its inception in 1961. Lefty guided the Angels from last place in the American League to third place in the Western Division that year. In 1970, he led them to a record of 86-76; but in 1971, they fell to 76-86, and he was dismissed from the position. Lefty remained with the Angels as a scout, but died the following year at the age of 52.

Career Dates:
Phillips managed the California Angels from 1969-1971.

Position:
Manager

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