Don Mattingly, a former baseball player and manager, decided that the 2025 season would mark his final year in the sport. Despite never winning a World Series ring since his debut with the New York Yankees in 1983, Mattingly planned to retire as a bench coach in Toronto after one last season. However, he changed his mind after meaningful conversations with his son, Louis Mattingly, who encouraged him to continue in the game.
Mattingly, now 64 years old, reconsidered his decision following the Toronto Blue Jays’ loss in the World Series to the Los Angeles Dodgers. He signed a multi-year deal to work as a bench coach under Canadian manager Rob Thomson for the Philadelphia Phillies. Mattingly, who managed the Dodgers from 2011-2015 and the Marlins from 2016-2022, expressed that he no longer aspired to manage a team again.
The Phillies welcomed Mattingly as a valuable addition to their coaching staff, replacing Mike Calitri. Mattingly’s extensive experience and successful track record in baseball, including leading the Marlins to their first playoff appearance in 2020, make him a respected voice in the sport. He played 14 seasons as a first baseman for the New York Yankees, earning six All-Star selections and serving as the team’s captain in his final years.
Despite falling short of Hall of Fame induction, Mattingly remains dedicated to the game and aims to contribute to the Phillies’ pursuit of a World Series title. Philadelphia, under the guidance of manager Rob Thomson, has made multiple playoff appearances but has yet to secure a championship since 2008. Mattingly and his son share the aspiration of ending that title drought together, making their collaboration with the Phillies an exciting prospect for the upcoming season.