Joe Maddon opts out of contract with Tampa Bay Rays

Longtime manager Joe Maddon has elected to exercise an opt out clause in his contract with the Tampa Bay Rays. ESPN’s Buster Olney first reported the news which was since been confirmed by the team. Maddon’s departure from the organization is effective immediately.

The Rays have seen quite a shakeup to their leadership core in recent weeks, first watching Andrew Friedman leave the front office to join the Los Angeles Dodgers and now seeing Maddon follow him out the doors. Speculation began immediately following Friedman’s hire in Los Angeles that he could look to eventually bring Maddon aboard as well, despite public support for current Dodgers manager Don Mattingly. Maddon had a year remaining on existing deal, suggesting that an eventual reunion may have still been possible. While Maddon’s immediate plans are unknown, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times has learned that he’s hoping to manage again as soon as this coming season. The Minnesota Twins are the only club with a current opening, though they appear to be nearing a decision on their own and they will hardly be the only opportunity available between now and Spring Training. FOX’s Ken Rosenthal is already hearing that the Dodgers will not be in the mix.  

Maddon has been at the helm of the Rays since the start of the 2006 season, compiling a 754-705 record during his tenure. He led the team to four playoff appearances, including a pair of division titles, during his tenure.

The Rays will reportedly take their time in naming a replacement for Maddon, but the likely favorite for the position will be Dave Martinez – Maddon’s bench coach. Martinez has been discussed as a potential managerial candidate for openings over the past two years but he’s yet to receive an opportunity.