Billy Connors, a former Yankee executive and pitching coach, died Monday. He was 76.
Connors had three stints as Yankees pitching coach (1989-90, 1994-95 and 2000), but he made his most significant impact with the organization as vice president, player personnel, from 1996-2012.
In his most recent role, Connors was based at the team’s minor league headquarters in Tampa and worked with pitchers throughout the organization.
Born in Schenectady, Connors pitched with the Cubs and Mets from 1966-68. After his playing days, he became a minor league pitching instructor for the Mets and also worked for the Royals, Cubs, Mariners and Phillies.