Pat Gillick

The architect of the Phillies' 2008 World Series title.

Pat Gillick served as the general manager of the Philadelphia Phillies from November 2005 through the conclusion of the 2008 season. He is credited with guiding the franchise to a World Series championship in 2008, ending a long title drought. His tenure began with a significant trade sending Jim Thome and cash to the Chicago White Sox for Aaron Rowand, Gio González, and Daniel Haigwood, clearing the way for Ryan Howard to become the permanent starter. Gillick later transitioned into team leadership roles, serving as interim president in August 2014 and assuming the presidency permanently in January 2015 before returning to a senior advisor role after the 2015 season.

Quick Facts

Position

General manager

Born

22 August 1937

Birthplace

Chico, California, U.S.

Highlights

3× World Series champion (1992, 1993, 2008)
Toronto Blue Jays Level of Excellence
Philadelphia Phillies Wall of Fame

Lore & Background

Gillick's time with the Philadelphia Phillies began on November 2, 2005, when he was named general manager. His first major transaction involved trading Jim Thome and cash to the Chicago White Sox in exchange for Aaron Rowand, Gio González, and Daniel Haigwood. This move specifically cleared the path for Ryan Howard to become the permanent starter at first base, a decision that paid immediate dividends as Howard was named NL MVP that year. Although Gillick had permanent residence in Toronto with his wife Doris, the family relocated to Seattle after he took the Phillies job. He eventually retired from his general manager role after securing the 2008 World Series title but remained with the organization as a senior advisor to assistant GM Rubén Amaro Jr. and president David Montgomery.

Reader's Guide

Fans and observers often look back at Gillick's specific contributions during his tenure from 2006 to 2008. The pivotal moment for the roster construction occurred early in his GM stint with the trade of Jim Thome, which facilitated Ryan Howard's rise to MVP status. In recognition of this achievement and his lifetime service, Gillick was named 'King of Baseball' by Minor League Baseball in 2008. He also received the Executive of the Year award from fans for that same year. His work with the Phillies earned him induction into the Philadelphia Wall of Fame in 2018, making him the first executive to receive this honor.