After a weekend in which all signs pointed to the Washington Nationals hiring Davey Johnson as their new manager, the Nationals have made it official, sending out a press release confirming that Johnson will replace Jim Riggleman as field manager for the remainder of the 2011 season.
Nationals Hire Davey Johnson As Manager
Johnson has over 10 years of managerial experience, and managed the World Series champion New York Mets in 1986, but hasn't piloted a team since being fired after leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to an 86-76 record in 2000. Johnson's hiring lends credence to a theory espoused by Riggleman that the Nationals wanted a "big name" to manage the team as it develops a strong core of young players, including pitcher Steven Strasburg and slugger Bryce Harper.
But Johnson’s managerial contract is only valid until the end of the season, though his deal includes staying on for three more years as a consultant, and likely helping general manager Mike Rizzo choose the Nationals’ next manager.
For more on Johnson and the Nats, visit SB Nation’s Nationals blog, Federal Baseball.
See More:
