After the World Series heartbreak for Jays fans, there was some surprising news: Don Mattingly leaving the Blue Jays after having a good run to the World Series. Then, there were questions about his future. When asked about it at the start of the offseason, he revealed that he had plans, but nothing official. However, things have now changed.

“Don Mattingly officially joined the Phillies as bench coach now. His Jays contract has run out now,” reported Jon Heyman.

The Philadelphia Phillies fans are not happy, though. But is this justified after the season the Jays had with him?

Mattingly brings managerial experience from the Dodgers and Marlins, plus recent postseason guidance from Toronto. He helped the Blue Jays reach Game 7 of the 2025 World Series, mentoring first-time manager John Schneider.

Now, Don Mattingly is set to serve as bench coach for the Phillies, supporting Rob Thomson with strategic decisions. He will guide game planning, manage clubhouse structure, and offer insight during in-game situations. This role puts him at the center of daily operations, consistently influencing both players and coaching staff.

His presence provides the Philadelphia Phillies with a voice familiar with long seasons, playoff pressure, and high-stakes environments.

Fans should not dismiss Don Mattingly because his recent coaching success shows clear value beyond his mixed managerial postseason record. In Toronto, he helped guide a team to an AL East title and a near-championship performance. His ability to develop players like Derek Jeter and manage critical moments could directly benefit Philadelphia’s competitive ambitions.

Mattingly’s relationship with Bo Bichette could also influence the Phillies’ roster decisions positively in free agency.

Overall, his addition might be a significant upgrade, providing leadership, experience, and strategic insight that fans may currently undervalue.

Don Mattingly’s presence gives the Phillies a steady hand guiding Rob Thomson through high-pressure situations. Fans may complain, but his experience turning young talent into postseason contenders cannot be ignored. Whether they like it or not, Mattingly’s influence now stretches from the dugout to potential roster decisions.

Phillies fans are not happy with Don Mattingly’s signing

One fan said, “Rip the Phillies window and hitting core,” showing immediate skepticism of Mattingly. They worry his emphasis on mechanics and situational hitting might disrupt current approaches. Another part of the comment, “Donnie Baseball is here to push his failed philosophies,” critiques his past managerial record. Don Mattingly’s focus on swing consistency, bottom-hand power, and contact rates contrasts with fan expectations for flashy, modern hitting results.

Another wrote, “I’d work for my kiddo too,” highlighting Mattingly joining his son’s front office. This points to the direct connection between Don Mattingly and GM Preston Mattingly in Philadelphia. Many fans are in doubt, worrying nepotism might influence coaching decisions more than baseball performance.

Then came a warning: “Just don’t make him your hitting coach,” showing distrust of Mattingly’s methods. Fans fear that his mechanical approach might clash with Philadelphia’s current hitters or limit offensive creativity.

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Meanwhile, one Philly Nation member highlighted their team’s strong position. “Phillies are the only team in the NL that has a chance at unseating the Dodgers.” The Phillies clinched back-to-back NL East crowns and finished ahead of Los Angeles during the regular season, showing a real competitive edge. Their World Series odds even climbed above the Dodgers at one point, backing that belief in ballpark and analytics alike.

With that, one fan noted the positive. “Mattingly’s experience will be a great asset for the Phillies.” Mattingly joins Rob Thomson’s staff after working three seasons as Toronto’s bench coach, bringing decades of managerial and coaching knowledge. Philadelphia’s decision reflects value in that experience, including his National League Manager of the Year award with the Marlins and deep familiarity with leadership roles.

Don Mattingly’s arrival ensures Philadelphia has a seasoned baseball mind quietly steering Rob Thomson’s decisions. Fans may grumble, but his experience could refine swings, improve strategy, and stabilize the clubhouse. Whether the Phillies embrace it or not, the Mattingly duo now owns both the dugout and front office narrative.