3 Managers the Phillies Immediately Need to Target After Gabe Kapler Firing

The Philadelphia Phillies brilliantly waited until Thursday to give manager Gabe Kapler the pink slip, probably so they could slide behind the news of the Los Angeles Dodgers' embarrassing NLDS loss to the Washington Nationals.

But there's good news, Phillies fans. There are plenty of viable options on the market to succeed Kapler. Let's take a look at who might be the best fit:

3. Ron Washington

The Phillies, without a doubt, need a manager with experience. While Ron Washington hasn't served as a manager since his days with the Texas Rangers, he's played a meaningful role on the Atlanta Braves coaching staff and is a sought-after candidate this offseason. He's dealt with pressure-filled and high-stakes moments before, which could make him a good fit in the demanding market that is Philadelphia.

2. Joe Girardi

Joe Girardi is another guy teams are looking to bring on board, but he's going to want an enticing situation. The Phillies certainly provide one with their star-studded roster. While the pitching staff has a lot to improve, Girardi can very much help alleviate their struggles given that aspect of management is his specialty. Sign a couple of big arms in the offseason and Girardi will have more than enough to work with.

1. Joe Maddon

Just like Girardi, Maddon will be looking to sign on with a contender. And what better team to join than the Phillies, who can spoil the Cubs' chances in the National League? Maddon would have another tough task ahead of him with the awful bullpen in Philly. But, look what he did in Chicago! Maddon rarely ever had a good relief corps, but always managed to get the job done, leading the Cubs to their best multi-season stretch since the early 1900s.