Philadelphia Phillies to part ways with Charlie Manuel
By Mike Dyce
The Philadelphia Phillies have reportedly decided to part ways with manager Charlie Manuel, who led the Phillies to the 2008 World Series Title. Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia’s Jim Salisbury broke news of the report on the heels of an impromptu conference call with the press scheduled for 2:30 EST.
Salisbury cited a source saying that the quickly scheduled conference call with the press is to announce the release of Philadelphia Phillies manager Charlie Manuel.
Phillies call 230 press conf. No details
— Jim Salisbury (@JSalisburyNBCS) August 16, 2013
Phillies to make manager change, sources say. Press at 230.
— Jim Salisbury (@JSalisburyNBCS) August 16, 2013
ESPN’s SportsCenter tweeted out something that seemed to valdiate Salisbury’s report.
BREAKING: Charlie Manuel out as Phillies manager after nine seasons. Manuel led the team to 2008 World Series win. (via media reports)
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) August 16, 2013
It still isn’t known whether this is a mutual split or if the Phillies are firing Manuel.
From CBS Sports’ Matt Snyder:
"No reason was given as to why there was a press conference, but now sources indicate to CBSSports.com’s Danny Knobler that Manuel is expected to be replaced as manager at said press conference.So the press conference is to announce that Manuel has either resigned or been fired. Regardless, he’s out."
There were early reports that Ryne Sandberg could be the lead candidate to replace Manuel.
Ryne Sandberg will be the next Phillies manager, source says.
— Danny Knobler (@DannyKnobler) August 16, 2013
Sandberg has been the manager in waiting since he joined Phillies organization as AAA manager. Has been major-league 3B coach this year.
— Danny Knobler (@DannyKnobler) August 16, 2013