Don Mattingly Opens Door to Permanent Phillies Role

Mattingly’s Candid Bid for Full‑Time Job

Wednesday, Don Mattingly was asked whether he wanted to shed the “interim” label and become the Phillies’ manager on a permanent basis. “Oh I would do it,” he said, per NBC Sports Philadelphia, explaining that he had already pledged a two‑year deal when he joined the club. “So, you know, whatever Dave (Dombrowski) wants to do in that regard. But yeah, I think I would like to do it.” The comment signals Mattingly’s willingness to take the next step after a strong first season behind the dugout.

Turnaround After a Terrible Start

The Phillies fired Rob Thomson on April 28 after a 9‑19 beginning and replaced him with Mattingly, who was serving as bench coach. Since that change, Philadelphia is 43‑23, climbing into second place in the National League East. The Braves sit three games ahead, while the Cubs are just half a game back in the NL Wild Card hunt. The surge has transformed the narrative from a disappointing April to a legitimate playoff contender.

Playoff Odds Skyrocket

FanGraphs now gives the Phillies an 85.4% chance of making the playoffs and a 6.6% chance of winning the World Series. When Thomson was dismissed, the odds were only 32.8% for the postseason and a mere 1.9% for a championship. The dramatic jump reflects not only the improved record but also the confidence analysts have in Mattingly’s steady hand at the helm.

Past Managing Experience and Notable Achievements

Mattingly has been at the helm three times. He guided the Los Angeles Dodgers from 2011 to 2015, capturing three NL West division titles but never advancing past the World Series. His stint with the Miami Marlins spanned 2016 to 2022, highlighted by a surprise playoff run in 2020—the franchise’s first postseason appearance since its 2003 championship. Those resumés underline why the Phillies are eyeing him for a long‑term role.

As the Phillies continue to climb the division standings, Mattingly’s potential elevation could lock in the momentum that turned a shaky season into a bona fide postseason push. The combination of his proven track record, the team’s improved performance, and the soaring odds suggests a compelling case for a permanent managerial contract.