Former Rockies Bench Coach Joins Organization

HOUSTON, TX —  The Houston Astros announced today that the club has named Jamie Quirk as bullpen coach for the 2010 season. The announcement was made by General Manager Ed Wade.

Quirk, 55, spent 2009 as a professional scout for the Cincinnati Reds after serving as Colorado Rockies bench coach for six seasons from 2003-08.

“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.”

The Royals No. 1 draft pick in 1972, Quirk hit .240 with 43 homers and 247 RBI in 984 career Major League games from 1975-92 with the Royals (1975-76, ‘78-82, ‘85-88), Brewers (1977), Cardinals (1983), White Sox (1984), Indians (1984), Yankees (1989), Athletics (1989-92) and Orioles (1989). He began his career as an infielder and outfielder before switching over to catcher in 1979.

ASTROS 2010 COACHING STAFF

BRAD MILLS – MANAGER; AL PEDRIQUE -- BENCH COACH; BRAD ARNSBERG -- PITCHING COACH; SEAN BERRY -- HITTING COACH; BOBBY MEACHAM -- FIRST BASE COACH; DAVE CLARK -- THIRD BASE COACH; JAMIE QUIRK – BULLPEN COACH