Phillies hire Girardi

Philadelphia hired former Yankees Manager Joe Girardi to replace Gabe Kapler on Thursday. Girardi will be introduced at a news conference Monday. “I’m excited for this next chapter of my career,” Girardi, 55, said in a statement. “The Phillies have a strong commitment to winning from the owners to the front office to the players to the fans. … To have my name now associated with this great franchise is something that I couldn’t be happier about.” It was a busy day around the league for managerial hirings. The Chicago Cubs tabbed former catcher David Ross to replace Joe Maddon, and the San Diego Padres turned to rookie manager Jayce Tingler. The Los Angeles Angels introduced Maddon. Kapler was fired after an injury-depleted team went 81-81 despite significant offseason additions highlighted by Bryce Harper’s arrival. He was 161-163 in his two seasons. The Phillies also interviewed Dusty Baker and Buck Showalter. Girardi was the favorite among vocal fans, who didn’t accept Kapler mainly because of his California-cool personality. Girardi was one of the most prominent candidates to fill vacant managerial spots across baseball. He also interviewed with the Cubs and New York Mets. “Joe brings high character and a tremendous work ethic to his position, and he is a proven winner,”

Phillies General Manager Matt Klentak said. “I look forward to working with him and I believe that he is the right manager to lead our team to the next level.” Girardi succeeded Joe Torre after the 2007 season and spent a decade in pinstripes. He led New York to its 27th World Series title, beating the Phillies in six games in 2009. He also managed the Marlins one season and was NL Manager of the Year after going 78-84 in 2006, the only manager in the history of the award to win it with a losing record. Girardi’s record with the Yankees was 910-710, the sixth

most wins in team history. He led the Yankees to three AL East titles and six postseason appearances.

Girardi