Former Phillies GM’s view on Rob Thomson’s future may upset some fans
Rob Thomson has led the Philadelphia Phillies to three consecutive postseason appearances since becoming manager in June 2022. On the surface, that seems like a great achievement. However, when looking closer at the Phillies’ inconsistent performance this season, it doesn’t feel as impressive. Despite 95 wins and an NL East title, the team’s lackluster finish in 2024 has diminished the accomplishment.
The ultimate goal was to return to and win the World Series, but Thomson fell short. The team has regressed, going from a World Series appearance in 2022 to a seven-game NLCS loss in 2023, and now an NLDS loss in 2024. This lack of progress raises questions about Thomson’s job security, especially after a lackluster Game 4 loss and the team’s mediocre second half of the season. Despite starting strong at 45-19 by June 8, the Phillies played .500 baseball from then on, finishing 51-51, including the 1-3 NLDS result.
Managers often take the blame when teams underperform. Should the front office consider firing Thomson in the offseason? A portion of the fanbase believes so, though he still has supporters.
Former Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr. weighs in on Rob Thomson’s future after the early playoff exit
Thomson, who received a contract extension through 2025 after the 2023 season, isn’t guaranteed job security. Following the Phillies’ elimination, former GM Ruben Amaro Jr. expressed his support for Thomson on *The Phillies Show* podcast, saying, “In my heart of hearts, I don’t think letting him go is the answer because he is outstanding, and I believe in him.” However, Amaro hinted that there could be personnel changes elsewhere.
Ultimately, the manager is responsible for the team’s on-field performance. Despite having a veteran roster that was largely self-sufficient in the clubhouse, it was Thomson’s duty to get the best out of them, which didn’t happen in the second half of the season or the NLDS.
Responsibility also extends to the front office. President of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski and GM Sam Fuld are accountable for assembling the roster, and many players failed to perform. The starting pitching was solid, but the offense and bullpen let Thomson down. With a long offseason ahead, there’s plenty to analyze regarding the roster.
“There will be accountability somewhere,” said Jim Salisbury in agreement with Amaro. “I think Rob Thomson has done an excellent job and isn’t the fall guy here, but there will likely be some accountability elsewhere.”
Thomson’s final mistake of the season proved costly
It’s hard to say how things might have unfolded had Thomson made different decisions with his roster throughout the season. While managers’ mistakes can be offset by the positive moves they make, Thomson’s most significant error this season came at a crucial moment in Game 4. He decided to send Jeff Hoffman back out for the sixth inning after Hoffman had recorded two outs in the fifth and sat in the dugout for an extended period. Commentators Adam Wainwright and A.J. Pierzynski even questioned this move during the FS1 broadcast.
Rob Thomson
Hoffman struggled, allowing a single, two wild pitches, a hit batter, and a walk before Thomson removed him, but by then, the damage was done. Carlos Estévez gave up a grand slam to Francisco Lindor, sealing the Phillies’ fate. Thomson’s failure to pull Hoffman earlier—especially with a fully available bullpen—was a crucial misstep.
Beyond that mistake, there was a noticeable shift in the team’s energy after the All-Star break, which carried into the postseason. While Thomson isn’t solely to blame, he’ll ultimately have to shoulder much of the responsibility for the disappointing finish.
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