Phillies name Pete Mackanin manager for 2016

The Philadelphia Phillies named interim manager Pete Mackanin manager for the 2016 season, they announced in a press release on Tuesday. The extension includes a team option for 2017. 

Mackanin, 64, became the Phillies' manager after Ryne Sandberg abruptly resigned following a 26-48 (.351) start. 

Players, for the most part, seem to like Mackanin's intensity and have gone 31-46 (.403) in his presence. Mackanain seemed to have resonated with the players and while he was not given a lot of talent to work with to say the least, one could argue that he made the most of it. 

"The Phillies are pleased that Pete has accepted the position of manager for the 2016 season," said Andy MacPhail, the team's incoming president, in a statement. "We believe that Pete is the best fit for the role. Since assuming the interim manager position in June, Pete has developed an excellent rapport with our players and has also connected well with the media and our fans. Equally as important is his eagerness to take on the challenge of rebuilding the team and further developing our players. We look forward to his contributions."

Mackanain has an 84-99 career record as a manager. He has never been the permanent manager, serving as the interim skipper for three teams, the 2005 Pirates, the 2007 Reds, and now the 2015 Phillies. His chance to prove himself as a full-time manager will come next season. 

--Devan Fink

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