Jim Fanning - Building The Expansion Expos

Building The Expansion Expos

Fanning drafted wisely in the 1968 NL expansion lottery, and parlayed some of his drafted players to obtain via trade Rusty Staub from the Houston Astros. Dubbed le Grand Orange, Staub was one of the early folk heroes of les Expos, along with fellow outfielder Mack Jones and no-hit pitcher (and current baseball executive) Bill Stoneman. Just prior to the 1972 season, Fanning traded Staub to the New York Mets for three regulars – shortstop Tim Foli, outfielder Ken Singleton and first baseman Mike Jorgensen – who helped Montreal contend for the NL East title in 1973. Overall, with opportunistic manager Gene Mauch at the helm, Fanning achieved a degree of success during his eight years as GM, but when Montreal regressed in 1976, Fanning was replaced by Charlie Fox.

He then served in a number of front office posts with Montreal, including director of scouting, when, during the 1981 stretch run, he was called back into uniform. Manager Dick Williams, who had led the Expos into contention in 1979 and 1980, had alienated his players and clashed with the front office over his use of bullpen closer Jeff Reardon. With 27 games left in the season, Williams was sacked and Fanning was named his surprise replacement – he had not managed in almost 20 years.