Don Mattingly Joins Phillies as Bench Coach in New Role

Former New York Yankees star and accomplished coach Don Mattingly has been appointed bench coach for the Philadelphia Phillies, the team announced on Monday. Mattingly, who spent 14 seasons as a player with the Yankees, brings extensive coaching experience to his new role.

Phillies manager Rob Thomson expressed enthusiasm about Mattingly’s addition, stating, “I am excited to welcome Don Mattingly to Philadelphia. Having known Don for years and having worked closely with him in New York, I know that his knowledge of the game and his character make him a great addition to our tremendous coaching staff.”

Mattingly’s Coaching Journey

At 64 years old, Mattingly has dedicated the last 22 seasons to Major League Baseball coaching. His most recent position was with the Toronto Blue Jays, where he served as bench coach from 2023 to 2025. A native of Evansville, Indiana, Mattingly began his coaching career in 2004 as a hitting coach for the Yankees, a role he maintained for three seasons before becoming the bench coach in 2007.

Following his tenure in New York, Mattingly joined the Los Angeles Dodgers as hitting coach in 2008. After three successful years, he was promoted to manager, leading the team from 2011 to 2015. His managerial skills were further recognized when he took the helm of the Miami Marlins before the 2016 season, where he remained until 2022. Under his leadership, the Marlins achieved a 31-29 record in 2020, earning Mattingly the prestigious title of National League Manager of the Year from the Baseball Writers’ Association of America.

Legendary Playing Career

Mattingly’s legacy extends beyond coaching. As a player, he was a six-time American League All-Star and was named the AL Most Valuable Player in 1985. He won nine Gold Glove Awards, demonstrating his exceptional defensive skills at first base, including five consecutive awards from 1985 to 1989.

He concluded his playing career with impressive statistics: a lifetime batting average of .307, 2,153 hits, 222 home runs, and 1,099 RBIs across 1,785 games. In recognition of his contributions to the team, the Yankees retired his jersey number 23 on August 31, 1997, and he was honored with a plaque in Monument Park at Yankee Stadium.

Adding a personal dimension to his new position, Mattingly’s son, Preston, currently serves as vice president and general manager of the Phillies. This familial connection may further enhance his commitment to the team and its aspirations for success in the upcoming seasons.

Mattingly’s extensive experience and deep understanding of the game position him as a valuable asset to the Phillies as they aim to strengthen their coaching staff and enhance their competitive edge in Major League Baseball.