Hal Lanier landed a good deal when he signed with the San Francisco Giants in 1961. Not only did he pocket a $50,000 bonus, but he also got his father, Max, a former major league pitcher, a three-year contract as a Giants scout.

Lanier began his major league career in 1964 as a second baseman, but moved to shortstop three years later when the Giants obtained Ron Hunt. No matter where he played, he hit poorly, batting .274 his rookie year but never going above .233 after that. He suffered from epilepsy, but that did not interfere with his duties as the Giants' regular shortstop for five seasons.

In 1972 Lanier went to the New York Yankees, doing service as a utility infielder with the team for two seasons. After ending his playing career, he took on managerial duties in the minors. In 1986, his first year as a big league manager, he led the Astros to the NL West title, but their dream season ended when the Mets won the storied League Championship Series. Lanier won NL Manager of the Year for his efforts.

The Astros finished sixth in 1988 and Lanier was replaced by Art Howe. He coached with the Phillies in 1990 and 1991, then went back to managing in the minors. In 2005, Lanier was named manager of the Joilet Jackhammers of the independent Northern League.