Billy Connors, longtime coach, passes at 76

During the heart of the George Steinbrenner era, the Yankees went through pitching coaches like you or I might go through napkins. One of the coaches hired multiple times was Billy Connors, who served as the Yankees’ pitching coach under Dallas Green, Bucky Dent, Stump Merrill (1989-1990), and Buck Showalter (1994-1995). He also had a brief stint with Joe Torre in 2000 when Mel Stottlemyre was on a medical leave of absence. Sadly, Connors passed away Wednesday at age 76.

Hal Steinbrenner released the following statement:

“The Yankees organization mourns the passing of Billy Connors, who was a close and trusted friend of my family for many years.

“Since joining the Yankees at the conclusion of…