Don Mattingly, who previously expressed disinterest in managing again, was named interim manager of the Philadelphia Phillies on April 28, 2026. He steps in after Rob Thomson was fired following a disappointing start to the season.
The Phillies began the 2026 season with a 9-19 record, prompting management to make a change. Thomson had been hired as manager on June 3, 2022, but his tenure ended abruptly after just over three years. The firing comes after the Phillies got off to a horrific start to the season.
Mattingly will serve as interim manager through the end of the 2026 season. He has previous experience managing the Los Angeles Dodgers from 2011 to 2015 and the Miami Marlins from 2016 to 2022. His career managerial record stands at 889-950, including a postseason record of 10-14.
Interestingly, Mattingly’s son, Preston Mattingly, is the general manager of the Phillies. This familial connection adds another layer to his appointment as interim manager.
Key facts:
- The Phillies have made a managerial change midseason for the fourth time in the last 13 years.
- Mattingly becomes the 58th manager in Phillies history.
- Mattingly previously stated on December 5 that he had no interest in managing again because of that job’s time-consuming duties.
As Mattingly takes over, he faces significant challenges. The team must quickly turn around its fortunes if it hopes to compete this season. The upcoming games will be critical for both Mattingly and the organization moving forward.
