Charlie Manuel, Ruben Amaro Jr. demand offensive improvement for Philadelphia Phillies – MLB Update
Philadelphia Phillies’ manager Charlie Manuel and general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. apologised for the team’s failure in the postseason and ensured that the team will come out strong for the next season.
Amaro laid the onus of the defeat on Manuel and his coaching staff, highlighting the fact that team failed heavily on the offensive front. Elaborating his viewpoint, the GM stated that hitters need to change their approach on the plate and that the pitchers
alone can never win games for the team.
Accepting responsibility, Manuel agreed with Amaro and guaranteed an improved performance from the offence in the next season. Talking to reporters, Manuel articulated that he is well aware of his job and is better than many other managers on the circuit.
He further clarified that he does not need any hitting coach to help the team and is capable enough of handling the job himself.
However, Manuel was quick to point out that for the offence to click, it is essential that the team plays with a regular line-up for long periods. He added that for the last two or three years, the team’s line-up has not been consistent and that has been
core to the team’s failure on this front.
Advocating his viewpoint, Manuel said, “From an offensive standpoint, with the core players, the health thing definitely comes into play, having them on the field for a period of time and instead of having a disarray of line-ups.”
Since the acquisition of Hunter Pence from Houston Astros on the trade deadline, the Phillies played with their regular line-up for approximately 12 times.
Most of the batters in the line-up are between the age of 31 to 34 and Manuel believes that health of these players will play a major part in deciding the fate of the team. He asserted that the team needs runs and age should not be a constraint in this regard.
This season, injuries played a major role in Philadelphia’s downfall as well. Pence and Placido Polanco played with sports hernia and Chase Utley was scratched from the first 48 games due to a knee injury. All-Star select Shane Victorino was placed on the
disabled list twice this season and the manager needs to assure that injuries stay on the bare minimum when the Phillies take field in the next season.
Tags: