Breaking News: Don Wakamatsu Fired
Don Wakamatsu was fired today as Mariners manager – Read story from ESPN
Blows my mind. Last year, he was the shining star leading this team to 85 wins after a 100-loss season. Today, he’s the goat of the franchise. According to ESPN’s Rob Neyer, he lost control of the team. Really? I guess a 42-70 record will do that. He’s had public spats with Chone Figgins. He’s had clubhouse issues with people talking about Ken Griffey Jr. and “sleepgate.” Bottom line – he’s had a team that should be at least 20 wins better than it is. Still, I thought he would get another year. I’m shocked.
Pitching coach Rick Adair is also out. He was credited for getting Jarrod Washburn to pitch well last year. He also went from a savior to a goat, primarily because the bullpen went to pieces.
I know it’s about winning. Daren Brown from Tacoma will take over for the rest of the year. Don’t count on him being the replacement. Look for the M’s to do the same thing the Seahawks did after abruptly axing Jim Mora. They need to make a splash. They just saw Baltimore get Buck Showalter (who would have worked here). What other big names are out there? Looks like it will be an interesting off-season.
© 2010 Dan Weedin. All Rights Reserved
Wow. All I can say is wow…
Now that they’ve done it I wish they would bring up a coach from a lower minor league level who is not afraid to put the game in motion instead of hoping for a home run that probably won’t happen. Bunt, steal, hit & run, etc. I know they won’t though, because, as you said, they probably want to make a splash…
Talk about cleaning house.
“Seattle also fired bench coach Ty Van Burkleo and pitching coach Rick Adair. The team also released performance coach Steve Hecht.”
Anyone in favor of giving Bob Melvin another shot?