A Great Manager Whose Temper Got the Best of Him
Billy Martin is considered by many to be one of the greatest field managers in the history of baseball. He managed 5 different teams and took 4 of them to the postseason. Billy had his greatest success with the New York Yankees where he won his only World Championship. However his temper often got the best of him and quickly wore out his welcome everywhere he managed. Here is a look at the managerial career of Billy Martin.Minnesota Twins (1969) After spending 8 years in the Twins organization as a scout and coach, Billy was promoted to manage the big club in 1969. In his only season as manager he led the Twins to a 97 and 65 record and the American League Western Division Title. The Twins would lose to the Baltimore Orioles in the League Championship Series. However Billy got into a fight with one of his pitchers, Dave Boswell, in a bar after the season and was subsequently fired by team ownership.
Detroit Tigers (1971-1973) After a year out of baseball Billy resurfaced as manager of the Detroit Tigers. In 1971 he led the Tigers to a 91 and 71 record. In his second season as Tigers Manger he led them to the American League Eastern Division Title - the Tigers would lose to the Oakland A's in the League Championship Series. However Billy was fired during the 1973 season, allegedly for ordering his pitchers to throw at opposing batters.
Texas Rangers (1973-1975) Billy Martin took over the Texas Rangers at the end of the 1973 season. In 1974 Billy led the Rangers to their best record in franchise history (84-76). However Billy was once again fired during the 1975 season. His final record with the Texas Rangers was 137 and 141.
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