Categories: Rumors

Could Charlie Manuel Return as Advisor?

Fresh news from Matt Gelb of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Charlie Manuel is in the middle of making a decision of whether or not he wants to return to the Phillies in an advisory capacity. Gelb spoke to general manager Ruben Amaro, who cited Dallas Green and Pat Gillick

‘s returns to the Phillies after their time with the Phils as manager and general manager, respectively, had expired.

Gelb quotes Amaro with the following:

“Charlie is in the process of deciding what he wants to do,” Amaro said. “He would be a valuable member of our organization. I think he could help in a variety of ways. Hopefully we can work it out. We have made him an offer. Hopefully it would be something he’d be interested in doing.

“Charlie is in a position right now where he doesn’t have to do anything. But I think he’s always been pretty fond of the Phillies and the feeling is mutual. Hopefully we can bring him back. If not, that will certainly be his choice.”

Analysis: Great work by Gelb to address an issue that had been hanging since Manuel was let go. The team has a desire to bring its winningingest manager back but you have to wonder if Manuel may pursue one of the vacant MLB managerial availabilities, including but not limited to the Nationals, Cubs, Mariners, and possibly the Yankees.