Don Mattingly, a former baseball player and manager, had initially planned to retire after the 2025 season as a bench coach for the Toronto Blue Jays, regardless of whether he won a World Series ring. However, he changed his mind after discussions with his son, Louis Mattingly, who encouraged him to continue in the game. Mattingly decided to stay in baseball after the Blue Jays lost the World Series to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Mattingly, now 64 years old, signed a multi-year deal to serve as a bench coach for the Philadelphia Phillies under manager Rob Thomson. His son Preston Mattingly, who is the Phillies’ general manager, played a role in Mattingly’s decision to remain in the sport. Mattingly will bring his experience from managing the Dodgers and Marlins to help the Phillies, who are aiming to win their first title since 2008.
Mattingly expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Phillies coaching staff, replacing Mike Calitri. He stated that he no longer has the desire to manage a team and looks forward to contributing as a bench coach. Mattingly, a former six-time AL All-Star, played 14 seasons as a first baseman for the New York Yankees, finishing his career with impressive statistics.
The Phillies, under the guidance of Thomson, have been consistent playoff contenders but have not secured a championship. Mattingly hopes to work alongside his son and help the Phillies break their title drought.