Philadelphia Phillies Fire Manager Joe Girardi, Hire Rob Thomson

The Philadelphia Phillies entered the 2022 season with high expectations, but sitting at 22-29, the team decided enough was enough.

And now, manager is without a job.

The Phillies announced they have relieved skipper Joe Girardi of his duties, ending his tenure with the team in his third season with the club. Coaching assistant Bobby Meacham was also relieved of his duties.

Under Girardi in two-plus seasons as manager, the Phillies posted a 132-141.mark.

Girardi, was hired in 2019 after Gable Kapler was fired by the team, with the hope he could bring his championship pedigree to a Phillies team that seemed to be constantly stuck in the middle.

However, that hasn't happened.

“It has been a frustrating season for us up until this point, as we feel that our club has not played up to its capabilities,” said Phillies President of Baseball Operations David Dombrowski.  “While all of us share the responsibility for the shortcomings, I felt that a change was needed and that a new voice in the clubhouse would give us the best chance to turn things around.  I believe we have a talented group that can get back on track, and I am confident that Rob, with his experience and familiarity with our club, is the right man to lead us going forward.””

The moves come after the Phillies having lost seven of their past nine games, dsitting in third place in the NL East this season, 12 games behind the Mets.

Replacing Girardi will be bench coach Rob Thomson, who will serve in an interim role through the end of the 2022 season.

“I am extremely excited for this opportunity and I appreciate the confidence Dave has shown in me,” said Thomson.  “Having said that, this is an emotional day for me, having worked so closely with Joe for so many years.  This has been my home now for the last five years and I care deeply about this franchise, this city, our players, our coaches, our staff and our fans.  I am ready to lead this team and look forward to getting to work and turning this around.”

Girardi was in the final year of his contract.