Mackanin to return as Phillies manager in 2016
The Philadelphia Phillies' search for a manager has ended at their dugout.
The team announced Tuesday that it has extended the contract of current interim manager Pete Mackanin through 2016.
#Phillies have extended the contract of Pete Mackanin as manager through the 2016 season. The extension includes a club option for 2017.
— Phillies (@Phillies) September 22, 2015
Mackanin took the helm in Philadelphia after Ryne Sandberg resigned on June 26 following a rocky two-plus seasons with the club in which the team posted a 119-159 record.
While the Phillies were 26-48 (.351) to start the season under Sandberg, they are 30-46 (.395) with Mackanin as manager as the franchise reboots in the midst of a rebuilding stage.
Incoming team president Andy MacPhail, who the Phillies are optimistic will turn the franchise around, explained the decision to bring Mackanin back for next season.
"Pete has developed an excellent rapport with our players and has also connected well with the media and our fans," MacPhail said in a statement. "Equally as important is his eagerness to take on the challenge of rebuilding the team and further developing our players."
The Phillies announced that Mackanin's extension contains a club option for 2017 as well.
