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Phillies Players Rally Behind Mattingly for Manager Job
7 Oct
Summary
- Phillies interim manager Don Mattingly guided the team to a .590 winning percentage.
- Key players like Trea Turner and J.T. Realmuto expressed strong support for Mattingly.
- The team rallied from a poor start to secure a Wild Card playoff spot.
The Philadelphia Phillies' 2026 season has concluded, initiating an offseason where significant managerial decisions await. Don Mattingly took over as interim manager following Rob Thomson's firing in April, guiding the team to a remarkable 79-55 record (.590 winning percentage) and securing the No. 3 Wild Card spot in the National League.
This impressive turnaround has led to strong player endorsements for Mattingly's permanent role. Shortstop Trea Turner lauded Mattingly's calm and approachable style, while catcher J.T. Realmuto stated, "we love Donnie. We played well for him. He's a great manager." Designated hitter Kyle Schwarber highlighted Mattingly's ability to navigate the team through a difficult early season.
Mattingly's experience as a former superstar with the New York Yankees seemingly allowed him to connect effectively with the Phillies' star players, helping them overcome an early slump. While Mattingly has not commented on his future following the team's playoff elimination by the Atlanta Braves, his managerial performance and player support make him a central figure in the offseason's developing storyline.
