Exit Interview Due for Manuel
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by user Bigmrcia
The Philadelphia Phillies need to fire Charlie Manuel. There it is, laid on the line. To change is to make a change. And change is overdue. The losingest franchise in all of sports needs to shake things up. At 3-9 (down by 3 as I am writing), there is nothing to lose.
I never like my first article of the season to be about a team's need to fire their leader. In this case, I'll make an exception. Or maybe I am not. It seems that the Phillies are not following the old man's lead.
Manuel has an undeniable knowledge of the game. Let's not sell him short. But it is his ability to lead that leaves me in doubt. Since he replaced Larry Bowa, the Phillies have come close to the playoffs. But how many times can a team come close before you start to say, this team has not made the playoffs since 1993 and only twice since the franchise's only World Series title in 1980?
Who the Phillies would replace Manuel with is a tough truth. The best managers have jobs. Also, who would want the gig?
Not only have the Philly bats had trouble at times this year, the pitching has given up huge innings in almost every loss. Whether it's the bullpen blowing the lead after an outstanding start, or a starting pitcher serving up a 3-run bomb, the arms have been in trouble. Brett Myers was moved to the bullpen today with Jon Leiber rejoining the rotation. Leiber coming out I agree with, but is Adam Eaton better than Myers? In the long run, no way.
But pitchers are only half of the battery. The Phillies are relying heavily on unproven catcher Carlos Ruiz. His game experience is anything but extensive, and his pitch calling may be more of a problem than the team wishes to admit. Opposing teams are averaging 6 runs a game, and only twice have been held to two points. Does this mean Ruiz is responsible? Partly.
Overall, though, I think the Phillies are in a downward spiral and they need to come out of it. Manuel has a lot of experience in baseball, but it is obvious the players aren't buying into his system.
If the Phillies decide to wait a while before inviting Charlie for an exit interview, I do have a solution. The Phillies need to go old school. If they are still looking up at the division come the All-Star break, Manuel should be replaced by one of the people who helped get him fired.
That's right, a player-manager. Like Frank Robinson and Pete Rose, a current Phillie should be handed the reigns. This would add some accountability to the player, and it would also bring back that sandlot feel. This team needs an overhaul, and that might be the best course of action. After all, it can't hurt.
http://mikesphillysports.blogspot.com
