In the sunny setting of Dunedin, Florida, the Phillies lined up along the third-base line for the Grapefruit League opener, and all eyes were on one man in a blue top-Don Mattingly. As the Phillies' bench coach, Mattingly tipped his cap to the Toronto Blue Jays, a team he knows well, having spent three years in their dugout. It was a reunion of sorts, filled with familiar faces and warm greetings, especially from Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the Jays.
Mattingly, a former American League MVP, nearly snagged a World Series ring with Toronto last October and recently fell short of the Hall of Fame. Now with the Phillies, his move feels fitting, especially for a spring opener against his former team. "I love those guys over there," Mattingly shared, reflecting on the bonds formed during his time with the Jays.
At 64, Mattingly could have stepped away from baseball, but the Phillies saw him as a fresh perspective they needed. His presence is significant, especially with his son, Preston, serving as the team's general manager. Mattingly's arrival marks the most notable coaching change since Rob Thomson took over as interim manager in 2022.
In his new role, Mattingly has been more of an observer, jumping in during infield drills and taking on various duties. While he isn't running spring training-that's Mike Calitri's job-Mattingly relishes the freedom to roam and engage with the team.
With Toronto, Mattingly took on various responsibilities, evolving from a hitting instructor to a bench coach overseeing broader aspects of the team. Now, with the Phillies, he brings that same comprehensive approach. "This is a 96-win club," he noted, emphasizing that his role is to offer fresh insights to an already solid team.
Mattingly's influence extends to both veterans and younger players like Brandon Marsh and Justin Crawford. His storied playing career lends him credibility, and he aims to help players, offering guidance drawn from years of experience.
"If I can help a guy cut a corner, right? That’s what I’m here for," he explained.
J.T. Realmuto, who played under Mattingly with the Miami Marlins, values his addition to the Phillies. "He’s one of those coaches that brings a different level of respect," Realmuto said, recalling how Mattingly's advice shaped his approach at the plate.
Mattingly's unique situation, working alongside his son Preston, requires careful navigation. "My relationship with the players has to be a little different," he acknowledged, ensuring trust remains intact.
As the Phillies embark on a new season, Mattingly's past with Toronto lingers with a touch of bittersweetness. Blue Jays manager John Schneider expressed his admiration, highlighting the bond they shared. "You guys know how I feel about Donnie; he should be in the Hall of Fame," Schneider said, underscoring the impact Mattingly had during his tenure with the Jays.
With the opener behind them, the Phillies look forward to what Mattingly's experience and insight will bring to their campaign, blending old friendships with new beginnings.