Washington Nationals had a disappointing end to what was supposed to be a promising season. After coming into the 2015 campaign as the favorites to win the World Series, the Nationals fell dramatically short of that goal.
They blew what once was a double-digit lead in the NL East to the eventual division champion New York Mets, there was infighting all around and they eventually fired their manager, Matt Williams.
Now it’s reported that the Nationals will turn to a new manager who has some credentials. Former NL manager of the year, Bud Black, will be joining the Nats.
Following from James Wagner of the Washington Post.
The Nationals intend to hire former San Diego Padres manager Bud Black to become the sixth full-time manager in the team history, according to multiple people familiar with the situation. The Nationals have not announced Black’s expected hiring as Major League Baseball frowns upon teams making major announcements during the World Series.
In eight and a half seasons as manager of the San Diego Padres, Black compiled a 649-713 record (.477) but never reached the playoffs with the Padres despite being named 2010 NL manager of the year. Under Black, the Padres built a strong reputation for handling a pitching staff and for his ability to communicate well with his players due to his welcoming personality.
Black was fired earlier this season after the Padres, who had high expectations of their own, started the season 32-33.
