Phillies Appoint Don Mattingly as Bench Coach
The Philadelphia Phillies are making significant changes to their coaching staff following a disappointing postseason. Despite a successful regular season with 96 wins, the team’s performance in the National League Division Series (NLDS) against the Los Angeles Dodgers left much to be desired. To address these challenges, the Phillies have appointed Don Mattingly as their new bench coach for the 2026 season.
Don Mattingly: A Hall of Fame Addition
Don Mattingly brings a wealth of experience to the Phillies. A renowned Hall of Fame player, he has had a distinguished career in baseball both as a player and manager. He previously managed the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Miami Marlins, accumulating 11 seasons at the helm. However, he has faced challenges in the postseason, securing only eight playoff game victories and one series win in 2013 with the Dodgers.
Recent Success with the Toronto Blue Jays
Before joining the Phillies, Mattingly served as an assistant coach with the Toronto Blue Jays. During his three-year stint, he played a crucial role in helping the Jays come close to defeating the Dodgers in the recent World Series, showcasing his ability to contribute positively to a team’s success.
Strategic Coaching Moves
- Mattingly’s hiring is seen as a strategic move to enhance the team’s performance.
- He is expected to bring valuable insights and skills to the coaching staff.
- Manager Rob Thomson, who previously worked alongside Mattingly at the New York Yankees, supports the addition.
Thomson expressed enthusiasm about Mattingly joining, highlighting his intelligence, presence, and experience as ideal assets for the club. This addition comes as the Phillies reportedly show interest in signing Toronto’s star free agent, Bo Bichette, which could further strengthen their lineup.
With these developments, the Phillies are positioning themselves for a more competitive future in Major League Baseball. The combination of Mattingly’s expertise and the unwavering support from Thomson might be the catalyst the team needs to advance in the postseason.
