After a successful 95-win regular season that marked their first NL East title in 13 years, the Philadelphia Phillies faced an early playoff exit, losing in four games to the New York Mets in the NLDS.
Despite their impressive roster, the team struggled to perform in critical moments. As a result, some fans expressed dissatisfaction with manager Rob Thomson, especially after the Phillies’ previous season ended in the NLCS. Nevertheless, Thomson’s contract was extended following the 2023 season, keeping him in Philadelphia until after 2025.
On Tuesday, Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski confirmed that Thomson’s contract has now been extended through 2026, and the entire coaching staff will return for the next season, as reported by Todd Zolecki of MLB.com.
Dave Dombrowski said Rob Thomson’s contract had been extended through 2026. The entire coaching staff is returning next season as well.
— Todd Zolecki (@ToddZolecki) October 15, 2024
In his three years as the Phillies’ manager, Rob Thomson has guided the team to the postseason each year, compiling a record of 250-185.
Given the team’s playoff history, it was unlikely that Dave Dombrowski would part ways with Thomson. However, many fans expected changes within the coaching staff, particularly regarding hitting coach Kevin Long, due to widespread criticism of the Phillies’ offensive strategy during the four-game NLDS against the Mets.
The team’s struggles at the plate prompted calls from some fans for Long’s dismissal. Nonetheless, Dombrowski is committed to retaining the current coaching staff for at least another year, hoping they can resolve the issues and lead the Phillies back to the World Series in 2025.
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