Adding a knowledgeable baseball lifer is an advantage the Phillies and the faithful will appreciate during the offseason, spring training and 2020’s first half, plus general manager Matt Klentak is already considering his new manager’s recommendations.
Fourth voice:
If Philadelphia Phillies fans want to completely understand Joe Girardi, they must first realize his playing days were behind the plate: every pitch. Plus he also had the familiarity of hitting opposing hurlers and guiding his staff to preferable outcomes. Yes, an all-encompassing field view.
"IN OTHER WORDS: “We need a variety of input and influence and voices.” – Jim Rohn"
In December, the action revolves around Klentak as the point man regarding roster construction, financials and limitations. But Girardi also voices his take on available stars he led for the New York Yankees, and he probably has conversations with recent ex-Yanks to evaluate their expectations.
So far, Klentak has signed Zack Wheeler for five campaigns to a $118 million tally and is doing his part by providing a front-of-the-rotation piece. And, presently, the GM is at the Winter Meetings to pursue other irons in the fire. Meanwhile, the faithful should enjoy the addition to the five-man staff for a while.
Girardi is probably working closely with Klentak on personnel matters. Recommendation-wise, the Fightins have done their due diligence with *Didi Gregorius, Dellin Betances and Austin Romine. But while the exec re-upped Andrew Knapp as the backup catcher, the reliever and shortstop are still considerations. *Phillies signed.
For now, Girardi and Gregorius have praised each other, and you can imagine something similar with Betances. Additionally, the former Yankees and the new manager are probably having conversations about the Phils’ openings on the dirt and in the pen. So either star could shortly ink contracts here.
Basically, Girardi has an equal seat at the table, but his influence also has limitations. And the reserve-backstop decision produced a lower salary, a younger receiver, and minimal playing time. Roughly, the voices of the managing partner, president, GM and new skipper have equal input, not rank.
Management’s powwows are frequent during roster construction, plus Girardi and Klentak are approaching the 25-man squad regarding production, chemistry and other factors in the dugout, clubhouse and the media. Yes, the bottom line is ever present with every move.