Jerry Narron’s journey through the world of professional baseball is a tale of perseverance and adaptability. Born on January 15, 1956, in Goldsboro, North Carolina, Narron grew up with a deep love for the game. His professional career began when he was drafted by the New York Yankees in the sixth round of the 1974 Major League Baseball Draft. He made his MLB debut with the Yankees on April 13, 1979, as a catcher.
Narron’s time with the Yankees was brief, as he was traded to the Seattle Mariners in 1980. With the Mariners, he found more playing time and showcased his skills behind the plate. Over the next few years, he played for the California Angels and the Seattle Mariners again, before concluding his playing career with the Montreal Expos in 1987. Throughout his playing days, Narron was known for his defensive abilities and his work ethic, which earned him respect in the clubhouse.
After retiring as a player, Narron transitioned into coaching and managing, where he spent the majority of his professional life. He began his coaching career with the Baltimore Orioles as a bullpen coach in 1993. His managerial career in the major leagues started with the Texas Rangers, where he served as the interim manager in 2001 and was named the full-time manager in 2002. However, his tenure with the Rangers was short-lived, as he was dismissed in 2002 after the team struggled to perform.
Narron’s managerial career continued when he took over as the manager of the Cincinnati Reds in 2005. During his time with the Reds, he worked to develop young talent and instill a sense of discipline within the team. Despite his efforts, the Reds did not achieve significant success under his leadership, and he was let go in 2007.
Following his managerial stints, Narron continued to contribute to the game as a coach. He served as a bench coach for several teams, including the Milwaukee Brewers, Boston Red Sox, and Arizona Diamondbacks. His experience and knowledge of the game made him a valuable asset to these organizations, where he helped guide players and support the managerial staff.
Narron’s career in baseball extended beyond the major leagues, as he also managed in the minor leagues and worked as a coach in various capacities. His dedication to the sport and his ability to adapt to different roles allowed him to remain involved in baseball for nearly four decades.
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