Charlie Manuel replaced as Phillies manager

None of this is to say that Manuel was another John McGraw. He had a largely minimalist style, sticking to set lineups and staying out of the way when possible. Like all managers, he rose and fell with the quality of the roster he was given, and this year he wasn’t given much -- some good pitchers, at least on paper, some hitters of too fine a vintage, and a non-existent defense.

In this afternoon’s press conference, Amaro and Manuel indicated that the team had decided that Manuel would not return in 2014. “We’re in a transition phase. We’re looking to the future,” Amaro said. While Amaro conceded that Manuel would have been capable for managing for a few more years, Sandberg’s youth apparently cut in his favor. This makes sense if the organization is taking the long view. There was also likely the sense that if Manuel was allowed to live out his natural professional lifespan, Sandberg would either go stale on the shelf or leave altogether.

Manuel, 69, was in the final season his contract. He made it clear that he had been relieved of his duties, telling reporters “I did not resign, and I did not quit.”

Ruben Amaro Jr. informed Manuel that he would not be returning in 2014, so the team decided to make the change now. Amaro Jr. discussed his decision to remove Manuel during the press conference:

Philadelphia won 102 games in 2011, but have been in sharp decline the past two seasons, going 81-81 in 2012 and entering Friday with a 53-67 record.

It is currently unknown whether Manuel is stepping down from his manager position or if he has been relieved from his duties.