Phillies Interviewing Dusty Baker for Vacant Managerial Position
The Philadelphia Phillies had very high expectations heading into the 2019 season. With the addition of Bryce Harper along with other pieces, most thought the team would make the postseason and possibly win it all.
Well, that didn't happen. The Phillies had a disappointing year, finishing with essentially the same record as in 2018 and once again didn't make the postseason. The front office decided changes needed to be made, so manager Gabe Kapler was sent packing.
Gabe Kapler's dismissal makes eight managerial openings: the Mets, Cubs, Phillies, Padres, Giants, Pirates, Angels and Royals.
— Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) October 10, 2019
That's more than a quarter of the league.
Now it appears like the team is already searching for a replacement, as it was reported they met with Dusty Baker on Wednesday.
Phillies officials are meeting with Dusty Baker today, sources tell @JSalisburyNBCS.
— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) October 16, 2019
What's the team looking for in their next skipper, who are the other candidates and when might the search be over?https://t.co/Vp2LHbLgcr
Baker, who last managed the Nationals in 2017, has had success with multiple teams, including the Giants and the Reds. He's in contention with other big names for this Phillies spot.
Odds to be the next Phillies manager (BetOnline):
— Odds Shark (@OddsShark) October 13, 2019
Buck Showalter +250
Joe Girardi +350
Dusty Wathan +450
John Farrell +600
Dusty Baker +750
Joe Espada +750
Rob Thomson +1000
Joe Maddon +1000
Charlie Manuel +1200
Mike Scioscia +1400
This is a crucial decision for the Philadelphia front office, who have to find somebody that can optimize all of the talent they have now before it's too late.