Philadelphia considers removing the interim tag from Don Mattingly after Alex Cora declines to interview for the role.
The Philadelphia Phillies managerial search is heating up following a significant development in the offseason, as interim skipper Don Mattingly enters serious consideration for the full-time position heading into the 2027 Major League Baseball season.
This managerial update comes after former Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora officially declined to speak with the Philadelphia front office about the vacancy, stating his intention to take the 2027 campaign off entirely, according to information published by bleache.
Mattingly previously stepped in for Rob Thomson 28 games into the 2026 campaign while the ballclub sat at 9-19, ultimately guiding the roster to a 79-55 finish and securing a postseason berth for the fifth consecutive year.
Alex Cora Declines Philadelphia Phillies Interview
The landscape of the Philadelphia managerial search shifted dramatically when Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported that Alex Cora removed himself from consideration by opting to take a year away from coaching in 2027.
With Cora out of the running, the front office is weighing internal options heavily, noting that everything remains completely on the table regarding the future leadership of the dugout in Citizens Bank Park.
Don Mattingly Coaching Record and Experience
Over his 13 total seasons managing the Los Angeles Dodgers, Miami Marlins, and the Philadelphia franchise, Don Mattingly has accumulated a 968-1005 overall record alongside five total trips to the postseason.
His notable achievements include winning the National League Manager of the Year award in 2020 by leading the Marlins to the playoffs during the COVID-shortened campaign with a 31-29 record.
Front Office Options and Family Connections
If the organization decides to pursue a different direction for the manager role, reports indicate that Mattingly could transition into a front-office advisor position working directly under his son, general manager Preston Mattingly.
Regardless of the final managerial outcome, the veteran bench coach is currently under contract through 2027 and is widely expected to remain within the organization moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is currently being considered for the Philadelphia Phillies manager job?
Don Mattingly is under strong consideration to have the interim tag removed and become the full-time manager for the Philadelphia Phillies heading into the 2027 season.
Why did Alex Cora decline to interview with the Phillies?
Alex Cora declined to speak with the Philadelphia front office about the managerial vacancy because he plans on taking the entire 2027 season off from coaching.
What was Don Mattingly's record as interim manager in Philadelphia?
After taking over 28 games into the campaign with a 9-19 record, Don Mattingly led the Phillies to a 79-55 finish and a fifth consecutive postseason appearance.
