Fansided

Which MLB managers are next on the chopping block?

By Stanford Crissey

May 5, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez (33) prepares for a game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
May 5, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez (33) prepares for a game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 15, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Reds manager Bryan Price stands in the dugout prior to a game with the San Francisco Giants at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports
May 15, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Reds manager Bryan Price stands in the dugout prior to a game with the San Francisco Giants at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports /

Bryan Price, Reds

Price, who took over for Dusty Baker prior to the 2014 season, has proved excellent at using the f word, but less so when it comes to managing his team. The team, a contender for years under Baker, stumbled to a 75-87 season in 2014, and isn’t doing much better this year at 18-20.

That’s not to say that it’s Price’s fault that Joey Votto was hurt last year or that Jay Bruce’s talent has vanished as though the Monstars from Space Jam stole it. But managers with successful predecessors are judged to a harsher standard, and if Reds management still looks at this as a contending club, they might look to make a change if the losing keeps up.

The truth is, dealing with the media is an important part of a manager’s job. Not only does he have to let the media do their job, he has a responsibility to talk to them, not to mention in a civilized way devoid of f-bombs.

If that were Price’s only flaw, it could be excused. But the product on the field has been far from stelalr, and considering that the Reds went all in on the current roster, giving Joey Votto a massive ten-year contract, they may be looking for someone to blame before long. Don’t be surprised if it happens. And if it does, it’s unlikely that you’ll hear many in the media rushing to Price’s defense.

Next: Matt Williams, Nationals

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