Quirk Named Astros Bullpen Coach

HOUSTON - Houston Astros General Manager Ed Wade announced Wednesday that the club has named Jamie Quirk as bullpen coach for the 2010 season.

Quirk, 55, spent 2009 as a professional scout for the Cincinnati Reds after serving as Colorado Rockies bench coach from 2003 until 2008.

“Jamie has a wealth of experience and comes highly recommended,” said Wade. “He had a long playing career and spent 15 seasons as a Major League coach. He’s another solid addition to our staff.”

Quirk was a member of the Kansas City Royals’ Major League coaching staff for eight years, serving as bullpen coach (1994-95) and then bench coach (1996-2001). He then worked as the Rangers’ bullpen coach in 2002 before joining the Rockies. 

“I’m excited to add such an experienced and knowledgeable coach like Jamie,” said Astros Manager Brad Mills. “He’ll bring a lot to our club. Overall, I feel we have an outstanding big league coaching staff.”

Quirk was drafted by the Royals with the No. 1 pick in 1972, and hit .240 with 43 home runs and 247 RBI in 984 career Major League games from 1975-92 with the Royals, Brewers, Cardinals, White Sox, Indians, Yankees, Athletics and Orioles.

While Quirk began his career as an infielder and outfielder, he later made the switch to catcher in 1979.