Charlie Under Pressure?

Allow me to begin this article by first stating that I know all the things that Charlie Manuel has done for the Phillies. He has led them to 4, soon to be 5 NL East titles, 2 World Series appearances, and most importantly a World Series title.



But in this limited window of opportunity for the Phillies to win another title, Charlie Manuel may be under a bit of pressure from Ruben and the front office to win this year.



The front office has done their job by acquiring top talents Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Roy Oswalt, and Hunter Pence. They have done just about everything in their power to put together one of the best teams in all of baseball.



Now it is Charlie’s turn to get these guys to execute on the field and make the tough decisions to win games in October. Charlie also needs to make sure his guys are playing at an extremely high level once the post season hits.



Charlie’s tenure and long standing position as Phillies manager could be hurting the team given the fact that he is so loyal to some of these guys. I like Raul Ibanez and I love that Manuel continues to stay dedicated to him. But when you have a guy like John Mayberry Jr. who is hitting .300 plus since being called up in July, you have to play your best man. Forget about what Raul has done in the past, and put the best players you have at your disposal on the field to give your team the best chance to win.



Manuel’s loyalty toward Ibanez is not the only example of him sticking with a veteran. In 2009 and even last year, Manuel foolishly stuck with a struggling Brad Lidge. Finally this year Manuel has smartly gone with Madson as closer, a decision that has to this point paid huge dividends for the Phils.



Like I said I love that Manuel sees so much and believes in all of his players. But at the same time you have to play your best guys especially in October.



I think it’s fair to say that if the Phillies don’t win the World Series this year that Charlie may be under the gun. If I were Ruben I wouldn’t fire Manuel if the Phillies don’t win the World Series, but at the same time I would give him a very serious assessment and reevaluate his capabilities as manager of this team.