Rob Thomson Expected to Return as Phillies Manager for 2026 Season

PHILADELPHIA, PA — After another early exit from the postseason, speculation about Rob Thomson‘s job security as the Philadelphia Phillies’ manager has arisen. However, a report from the New York Post confirms that Thomson is ‘safe for 2026’ and is expected to return to lead the team next season. A formal announcement is anticipated later this week.

Thomson, 62, has made history in his managerial role. He is the fourth manager in Major League Baseball to lead a team to the postseason in each of his first four years. Additionally, he is one of only three Phillies managers to guide the club to consecutive NL East championships.

Thomson took over as manager midway through the 2022 season when Joe Girardi was fired. Recently, he revealed that he had planned to retire at the end of that season but was rejuvenated by the promotion to manager. Under his leadership, the Phillies have achieved a 346-251 regular-season record and reached the World Series in 2022, where they fell to the Houston Astros.

This year, the Phillies reached Game 7 of the NLCS but suffered consecutive Division Series losses to the Mets and Dodgers in 2024 and 2025, respectively. Despite a challenging postseason, players have voiced their strong support for Thomson. Star player Bryce Harper remarked, ‘I love Topper, man. He’s done a great job for us.’

Thomson’s contract runs through the 2026 season. He was given a one-year extension last offseason, which prevented him from entering this season as a lame-duck manager. Although there is no official word on an extension, the Phillies have expressed confidence in Thomson’s ability to manage the team moving forward.