Don Mattingly Joins Phillies as New Bench Coach for 2026 Season

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — Don Mattingly is officially the new bench coach for the Philadelphia Phillies as they prepare for the 2026 season. Mattingly, who spent the last three years with the Toronto Blue Jays, fills the position recently vacated by Mike Calitri.

The announcement comes after a disappointing postseason for the Phillies, who won 96 games during the regular season but struggled in the NLDS against the Dodgers. Manager Rob Thomson decided to retain his position, but the coaching staff will see some fresh faces.

Mattingly, a six-time All-Star and 1985 American League MVP, brings a wealth of experience to the role. He has managed the Los Angeles Dodgers and Miami Marlins over 11 seasons but has found more postseason success as a bench coach. He played a crucial role in helping the Blue Jays reach the World Series last fall.

“I think it’d be awesome to have him on board,” Thomson said regarding the hiring of Mattingly last fall. “Just his intelligence and presence will be a great fit for our club.”

A native of Evansville, Indiana, Mattingly expressed excitement about returning to a coaching role after his time in Toronto. “I had a great time there, but it felt like the right time to move on,” he stated.

In addition to Mattingly, the Phillies promoted Edwar Gonzalez to assistant hitting coach, replacing Dustin Lind, who moved to the Baltimore Orioles. Mattingly will work alongside his son, Preston, who serves as the team’s general manager.

Mattingly’s extensive background and respect in the league could provide the right spark for the Phillies as they aim to improve upon a disappointing playoff performance.