Phillies Extend Mackanin as Manager

The Philadelphia Phillies announced that they have extended Pete Mackanin as manager through the 2016 season.

The extension includes a club option for the 2017 season.

Mackanin, 64, was named interim manager of the team after previous manager Ryne Sandberg resigned midway through the season. Since taking over the team, Mackanin has gone 30-46 with the team including a 21-12 stretch after the All-Star break.

"The Phillies are pleased that Pete has accepted the position of manager for the 2016 season," said Andy MacPhail, the team's incoming president.

"We believe that Pete is the best fit for the role. Since assuming the interim manager position in June, Pete has developed an excellent rapport with our players and has also connected well with the media and our fans," MacPhail said.

Mackanin seems to have a good feel for the clubhouse being with the team and organization for multiple years as well as his connection to some of the younger players in the clubhouse. He is also fluent in Spanish, which is said to be an additional factor that allows him to connect to his players.

Mackanin’s all-time managerial record stands at 83-99.

--PG