Pete Mackanin Will Manager Phillies In 2016

Pete Mackanin (Hunter Martin/Getty Images)

It’s official, the Philadelphia Phillies dropped the “interim” and made Pete Mackanin the 53^rd manager in team history.

This move comes as a relief to most fans, while leaving some fans scratching their heads in confusion.

First, I will start with why this move makes sense. Mackanin is doing well with this team, considering the circumstances. The Phightin’ Phils are 30-46 under Mackanin. This record includes the very impressive streak they went on after the all-star break, 13-3 in the first 16 games.

I believe Mackanin will be able to command control of this team next season. He knows the guys on this roster which is a clear upper-hand to anyone else who would have applied for this position. There are definitely worse people that are out there for the job.

On the contrary, could the Phils have done better?

Mackanin did look pretty good for a stretch of games, but will he be the guy when the talent is around him? I think that Mackanin will do fine next season with what he has but I don’t know if he will be the guy when the time is right. He hasn’t shown anything yet this season that shows he has what it takes. One thing that I do like about him is that he has a back bone, he just benched Herrera for Jimmy Rollins-esque play. He needs to have a balance and command respect, while knowing how to deal with all of the prima donna’s that are bound to be in the clubhouse.

I’m one of the Phillie Phaithful that are grateful to have found at least an answer to next season’s managerial question. Here’s to hoping he can do better than Sandberg and Manuel. I want another pennant soon. You’re on the clock, Mackanin. Tick tock. Tick tock.