Bob Melvin Out, Some Guy In

Colin Coulahan by Correspondent Written on May 09, 2009
LAKELAND , FL - MARCH 4:  Catcher A.J. Hinch #2 of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on against the Detroit Tigers during a Spring Training game on March 4, 2005 at Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, Florida.  The Tigers defeated the Phillies 3-0.  (Photo by Rick Stewart/Getty Images) (Photo by Rick Stewart/Getty Images)

Ok so if you didn't hear yet, the Arizona Diamondbacks released Bob Melvin from his position as manager. And they also announced their new choice as manager, in a move that I'm sure was clear- and level-headed.

A.J. Hinch was introduced as Melvin’s replacement as manager Friday at a news conference, where general manager Josh Byrnes acknowledged the hiring was “unconventional.”

“He brings unique leadership and perspective to the job,” Byrnes said. “We’re not here to reinvent the wheel, but to change the nature of the job a little bit? OK, we’ll do that. A.J.’s a leader. He connects with people. He gets things done.”


So it really is not the absolute worst move they could have made. Yes, they are almost nine games back. And yes, the guy has absolutely no management experience.

But, the guy knows his players. The front office also says that teams have gotten better wherever Hinch plays.

I think it is move of pure desperation. When teams fire a manager, it is usually because of blowing big games or going on a losing streak. They then put a guy in who will get the team back on track.

Everyone is reminded of the Mets and Brewers' moves last years and that turned out pretty good in the end.

However, there is more to managing than filling out a lineup card and understanding your players. Learning on the job is not a recipe for success.

This will defintely come back to bite them in the long run. What else so you expect from an inexperienced guy on a team with young players who need to be developed?

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written on May 09, 2009 Sports

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