Joe Girardi is out as New York Yankees manager, surprising the baseball world.
CBS Sports New York reports that Joe Girardi will not return as Yankees manager for the 2018 season. He made it clear in a statement that it wasn’t his decision to depart:
"“With a heavy heart, I come to you because the Yankees have decided not to bring me back.”"
After a magical 2017 postseason in which the Yankees came within one game of going to the World Series, this news is quite shocking. Going into the playoffs, I believe Girardi’s job hung in the balance, but he did enough to secure his position for years to come with the team’s performance in October.
As always, Girardi showed grace and class when faced with a difficult situation:
"“I’d like to thank the Steinbrenner family for believing in me and giving me this wonderful opportunity.”"
Girardi was also grateful and nostalgic following surprising news to him and the baseball world:
"“I’d like to thanks the Fans for their great support as a Player, Coach and Manager and the lasting memories of their passion and excitement during the Playoff Games, especially the final six games which will remain in my heart forever.”"
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The 2017 MLB postseason gave Yankees fans hope for the future. Not just for the growing array of talent, but rejuvenated faith in their skipper.
Girardi was the manager in New York from 2008-2017, which included a 2009 World Series title, the first for the Yankees since 2000. His tenure included six playoff appearances, three of those American League East Division titles (2009, 2011, 2012).
In his 10 years in New York, Girardi never had a losing record, boasting a 910-710 mark and a winning percentage of .562.
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During the playoffs, I was critical of Girardi, especially after the infamous non-challenge call in the ALDS against the Cleveland Indians that nearly cost them the series.
He won me over and all but secured his spot as Yankees manager for seasons to come. Or so we thought. Where the Yankees go next in their search is unknown at this time, but Girardi’s shoes will be difficult to fill.