Philadelphia Phillies Fire Manager Gabe Kapler
The Philadelphia Phillies have fired their manager, Gabe Kapler, after two seasons with the team. The news was first reported by NBC Sports, and the team confirmed the news moments ago via a statement issued to the media.
"The Phillies have relieved Gabe Kapler of his duties as manager," the team said in a statement issued Thursday morning.
Kapler had a 161-163 record between the two seasons. The team did not make the playoffs in either season.
Kapler had one year left on his contract, NBC Sports reports, but the team’s poor performance late in the 2019 season likely played a role in the team’s decision.
The team finished the 2019 season with an 81-81 record, despite some key signings in the offseason (including superstar Bryce Harper).
"I am indebted to Gabe for the steadfast effort, energy and enthusiasm that he brought to our club, and we are unquestionably a better team and organization as a result of his contributions," Phillies managing partner John Middleton said via a statement.
The search for a new manager will likely begin soon, as there are several teams searching for a new manager (including the New York Mets, Chicago Cubs, and Los Angeles Angeles).
"With Matt (Klentak, the team's general manager) leading our search for our next manager, I am confident that we will find the right person to lead us," Middleton said on Thursday.
Klentak says that he will work hard to bring a championship to the city.
"In the coming weeks, John, Andy and I will work diligently with others in our Baseball Operations department to find the right individual to build upon the existing foundation and bring a championship home to Philadelphia."