On the heels of another disappointing postseason performance, Don Mattingly knew it was time for a change.
The Los Angeles Dodgers manager was relieved of his duties on Thursday following five seasons in Chavez Ravine, as both sides mutually agreed to part ways.
"At this point, at this time, it feels like the right decision," Mattingly told reporters.
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Mattingly wasn't exactly pushed out the door, as president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said the team was initially operating with the understanding that the 54-year-old would return next season. As the conversations progressed, however, it became clear that the sides were not on the same page.
"When we started (talking) Friday, we expected him to be our manager in 2016," Friedman said, adding that the team had discussed the possibility of extending the skipper beyond 2016.
"We talked about several scenarios, including my returning in 2016," Mattingly said. "However, I believe this is the right time and right move for both parties."
Los Angeles went 446-363 with Mattingly at the helm, winning the National League West division in each of the past three seasons, making Mattingly the first manager to lead the storied franchise to three consecutive playoff berths. The Dodgers, however, were unable to carry their regular-season success into the playoffs, having now been bounced in the NLDS in back-to-back years.
Despite boasting Cy Young candidates Zack Greinke and Clayton Kershaw, the Dodgers were eliminated in Game 5 of the NLDS last week by the New York Mets. The front office, however, acknowledged those shortcomings had nothing to do with the decision.
"It wasn't tied to the outcome of the NLDS," Friedman said.
With his departure from one of baseball's biggest markets, Mattingly is expected to garner plenty of interest from those clubs with a managerial vacancy. The Miami Marlins, Seattle Mariners, San Diego Padres, and Washington Nationals are all searching for new skippers.
"I'm still very passionate about managing and hope to get the opportunity in the near future," Mattingly said.