The Philadelphia Phillies are slated to hire Joe Girardi as their next manager, according to Todd Zolecki of MLB.com. Girardi, a three-time World Series champion as a player and once as a manager, last managed the New York Yankees between 2008-17 — team which he spearheaded to a title in 2009.
The hire comes in the wake of Gabe Kapler's firing two weeks ago after two seasons at the helm, as he went 161-163 during his short-lived tenure in The City of Brotherly Love.
Girardi finished his second round of interviews with the organization and reportedly made himself the favorite among many for the Phillies’ vacancy following an impressive showing on Monday at Citizens Bank Park.
Dusty Baker, Buck Showalter, and Girardi each had a second round of interviews with members of the Phillies’ front office, including ownership, over the course of the past few days.
Girardi had also interviewed with the Chicago Cubs before they landed on former catcher and World Series winner David Ross, as well as interviewing for the New York Mets managerial vacancy.
The Phillies have reportedly asked each manager about their individual views on baseball analytics, hoping to find the right fit of a manager that can blend the traditional and modern approaches to the game, while also having control and the respect of the players in the dugout.
Philadelphia has invested millions in building their analytics department, so it comes as no surprise that they want someone who believes in their vision, but is able to convey what's necessary and still mesh with the rest of the clubhouse, including position coaches. It seems Joe Girardi has that perfect mix the Phillies have been looking for.
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