PHILADELPHIA — This week on April 28, the Philadelphia Phillies fired manager Rob Thomson after a disappointing 9-19 start to the 2026 season.

The club named bench coach Don Mattingly as interim manager, with third base coach Dusty Wathan promoted to bench coach and Triple-A Lehigh Valley manager Anthony Contreras joining the staff. Thomson had led the Phillies to multiple postseason appearances since taking over in 2022, but the team’s poor record and negative run differential prompted the change.

The move came amid mounting pressure on a highly touted roster that entered the season with high expectations in the NL East.

This major leadership shake-up marks a turning point for the franchise.

The decision signals the Phillies’ urgency to reset and find immediate improvement under new direction as the 2026 season continues.

Source: MLB.com, ESPN, Yahoo Sports (April 28-29, 2026) Phillies Store