Longtime Astros clubhouse manager Dennis Liborio retired on Tuesday after 32 seasons with the organization due to health issues.
Liborio joined the Astros organization in November 1979 and held the job title of clubhouse manager throughout his entire tenure.
He established a great deal of respect and credibility among the players, coaches, front office and members of the media over the years as a very well respected and good-character guy.
The Astros released the following statement Tuesday: "We sincerely thank Dennis for his dedication and outstanding service. He has touched so many lives around the game of baseball and his contributions to the Astros will always be remembered."
Liborio previously worked in the clubhouses of the Red Sox and Dodgers prior to accepting his longtime position with the Astros.
He was a part of all nine postseason teams in Astros' history, tallying a total of 56 postseason games and over 900 Spring Training games.
Astros icon Craig Biggio considers Liborio as one of his best friends and credits the longtime clubhouse manager for a job well done.
"Dennis is truly one of my best friends," Biggio said. "Behind every great and successful team, there is a great clubhouse man. That's what Dennis was for us. For me, he's been an awesome human being and did an unbelievable job. He will be missed."
Liborio was honored in 2011 by the Major League Baseball Equipment Managers Association for his distinguished career in the game.
"Dennis is one of a kind," Astros TV analyst and former left-hander Jim Deshaies said. "Of the countless people I have met in the game, he is among my favorites. It just won't be the same without him in that clubhouse. As players, he was our 'mom.' He wasn't afraid to give you grief, but always had your back."
Hall of Fame pitcher Nolan Ryan, who pitched for the Astros from 1980-88, thought very highly of Liborio while playing for Houston.
Ryan, the current president and CEO of the Texas Rangers, has always admired Liborio's strong passion for his job and the game.
"I felt Dennis was one of the top equipment and clubhouse managers that I ever worked with," Ryan said. "He always had a real passion for the game and was truly committed to the organization.
"I hope he enjoys his retirement."
For the latest Astros news, click on the Subscribe button at the top of the page. Also, be sure to follow Houston Astros Examiner Stephen Goff on Facebook and Twitter, or email sgoff80@yahoo.com.
Comments