A native of Rutledge, TN, Phil Garner transferred to Bearden High School in Knoxville in order to participate in the schools more complete athletic program. The move paid off and following graduation, Phil signed a baseball scholarship with the University of Tennessee.
During his career with the Volunteers, Phil was a two-time All-Southeastern Conference selection, the 1969 NCAA home run champion and a 1970 All-American. He graduated from UT in 1973 with a degree in Business Administration and was drafted by the Montreal Expos in the eighth round of the 1970 draft but did not sign.
A three-time All-Star, Phil enjoyed an 18-year professional playing career starting in 1971, when he was the first pick in the secondary phase of the January draft by Oakland. He played primarily second and third base throughout his career.
Following his stint in Oakland, Garner played for Pittsburgh, Houston, Los Angeles and San Francisco in a career that spanned 1973-1988. Phil led National League second basemen in assists (499), total chances (869) and double plays (116) in 1980 and was named to the National League All-Star team in both 1980 and 1981 for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Following his playing days, Phil Garner first served as manger of the Milwaukee Brewers and currently serves as manager for the Detroit Tigers.