Grim situation for Washington Nationals as Jim Riggleman abruptly resigns – MLB News
Jim Riggleman, the Washington Nationals manager, resigned on June 23 immediately after the Nationals recorded a 1-0 victory against the Seattle Mariners at the Nationals Park in Washington D.C.
The resignation, which came quiet unexpectedly, took the dressing room and the fans by surprise. The moments of joy after an astounding 11th win in 12 outings came to halt in the Nationals Park when Riggleman made this announcement instantly after
the victory. Not to forget, this has been the best run for the Nationals since 2005.
His decision has come as a result of an unjust contract situation which he believed was disrespectful to him. Given his age and skill, his decision cannot be debated upon and respect is weighed way above financial gratifications.
The dressing-room, usually a sight of joy after a win, suddenly became filled with media people and Riggleman at the helm, answering questions. His depression could be felt in his voice.
“I know what the right thing to do is,” Riggleman said. “You don’t keep a manager on a one-year deal in major league baseball.”
Riggleman’s contract, signed back in 2009, was initially claimed to be a three-year deal. Critically speaking, it was a two-year deal with a team option for the third year. The contract also had a clause which allowed for a low buyout after the first season,
effectively making the contract on a year-to-year basis. His salary, a mere $ 600,000 is amongst the lowest in the league and given this scenario, his decision cannot be questioned as a matter of fact.
Mike Rizzo, the General Manager of the Nationals, had to hastily arrange a press conference to break this news to thousands of fans who were just moments into celebrating their team’s success. With shaky hands and a demanding voice, Rizzo said that the players
were in a cheerful mood and raring for the season, but the environment has suddenly become grave.
Lack of co-ordination between Rizzo and Riggleman has also been cited by many as a potential reason for this resignation. Having repeatedly raised his voice to Rizzo for a talk, he never got a worthy reply.
The players were caught in a fix and their thoughts jammed. On being asked, they opined that they do not know what to think. The only thing they know is that they are enjoying their stint and have to concentrate on the game.
John McLaren, the bench coach for the Nationals will now take over as interim coach beginning as soon as Friday. Rizzo now has to make a decision on whether to stick with McLaren or to find someone fresh to take over the reins.
The Washington Nationals are now on a roll and have a season record of 38-37. The off-field saga, however dramatic it gets, should not affect the team morale and the Nationals have to match their current feat if not better it in the matches to come.
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