Don Mattingly expresses interest in managing Phillies beyond this season

July 9, 2026 - 06:16

Don Mattingly has made it clear he would be interested in taking over as manager of the Philadelphia Phillies beyond the current season. The former skipper and current bench coach told reporters he would accept the job if the front office offered it to him.

"I would do it," Mattingly said in an interview before the team's 11-5 loss to the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday night. He joined the Phillies in January as the bench coach after spending three seasons in the same role with the Toronto Blue Jays.

Mattingly brings a long history of leadership to the clubhouse. He managed the Los Angeles Dodgers from 2011 through 2015 and then the Miami Marlins from 2016 through 2022. His career record stands at 889 wins and 950 losses. He also won the National League Manager of the Year award in 2020 after guiding the Marlins to a surprise playoff appearance.

The Phillies have not made any official announcement about a change in the dugout. But Mattingly's comments signal he is ready for the challenge if the organization decides to move in a new direction. He has been a steady presence on the bench this year, working closely with hitters and offering advice during games.

Whether the Phillies pursue a different candidate or hand the reins to Mattingly remains to be seen. For now, the veteran coach is not hiding his desire to lead the team again.