One of the best eras of Phillies baseball was officially brought to an end today, as the club parted ways with the winningest manager in franchise history, Charlie Manuel. Manuel finishes his Phillies career with a 780-636 record, in a tenure that included five consecutive division titles, two National League Championships and a World Series Championship in nine seasons.
Manuel's career total for wins just reached the 1,000 plateau, but may not remain there, as he made it clear in today's press conference that this was not his choice and he may seek a job elsewhere for next season. On the night originally scheduled to celebrate Manuel's 1,000th win, Ryne Sandberg will now take over managerial duties on an interim basis.
"I did not resign and I did not quit," said Manuel during the press conference.
Manuel was informed he would be let go on Wednesday night, when the Phillies dropped to 20.5 games back in the division at 53-67.
So with 42 games remaining, Ryne Sandberg will receive his first big league managing opportunity. It is somewhat of a tryout for Sandberg, as it has long been speculated that he was the heir apparent to Manuel.
By: Kyle Babcock
Follow us on Twitter: @BroadStBeat
"I did not resign and I did not quit," said Manuel during the press conference.
Manuel was informed he would be let go on Wednesday night, when the Phillies dropped to 20.5 games back in the division at 53-67.
So with 42 games remaining, Ryne Sandberg will receive his first big league managing opportunity. It is somewhat of a tryout for Sandberg, as it has long been speculated that he was the heir apparent to Manuel.
By: Kyle Babcock
Follow us on Twitter: @BroadStBeat