Don Mattingly is heading to the All-Star Game in Philadelphia, and he’ll be wearing a coaching uniform alongside Dodgers manager Dave Roberts.
According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Phillies interim manager will join Roberts’ National League coaching staff for the midsummer classic. Cardinals manager Oli Marmol rounds out the group.
“Marmol and Phillies manager Don Mattingly will be the non-Dodger coaches with Roberts,” Nightengale reports.
It’s a fitting recognition for Mattingly, who’s helped guide Philadelphia to baseball’s best record since taking over for Rob Thomson. The timing couldn’t be better either – with the All-Star Game coming to Citizens Bank Park, having the home team’s skipper on the coaching staff feels right.
Roberts earned the NL manager spot after leading the Dodgers to the World Series last fall. That’s his second straight year running the National League squad.
What makes this interesting is the potential storyline brewing. Mattingly’s done such a strong job with the Phillies that there’s a real chance he could face off against Roberts’ Dodgers come October. For now though, they’ll be working together to get the NL All-Stars ready.
The Phillies should have plenty of representation on that roster too. Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber seem like locks, while Cristopher Sanchez has been dominant on the mound. Don’t sleep on Brandon Marsh either – he’s been swinging a hot bat.
The American League team will be managed by John Schneider, which sets up an interesting dynamic. Mattingly spent time with the Blue Jays organization, so there’s some familiarity there too.
All things considered, it’s been quite a turnaround for the Phillies since Mattingly took over. Getting this All-Star recognition is just another sign that Philadelphia’s heading in the right direction at exactly the right time.
