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Phillies fire coach after Series win

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At the Phillies' post-parade celebration at Citizens Bank Park last week, some of the few boos that could be detected came when third-base coach Steve Smith was introduced. Well, Philadelphians won't have Smith to kick around anymore. Smith will not be back for a third season with the Phillies in 2009, new general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said yesterday. Amaro and manager Charlie Manuel, who flew to the general managers' meetings just so he could deliver the news in person, drove to Smith's home near San Diego yesterday afternoon to inform the man who has been with the Phils since 2007. Smith infuriated Phillies fans early with some controversial decisions as the third-base coach, but that criticism abated in this championship season. However, the relationship between Smith and Manuel apparently has been strained for some time, and there was speculation before and during the 2008 season that Smith might be let go. He was suspended twice this season for on-field incidents, something that angered the low-key manager, who did not like the negative spotlight being shone on a staff member.

Philadelphia Inquirer

Charlie Manuel, AP Charlie Manuel, AP
November 5, 2008  06:07 AM ET

He should never have waved home Ryan Howard on that infield fly.

November 5, 2008  07:00 AM ET

What a beatuiful picture

November 5, 2008  07:00 AM ET

*beautiful

November 5, 2008  08:05 AM ET

Charlie is the man!

November 5, 2008  08:33 AM ET
QUOTE(#3):

*beautiful

Yes it is, I remember when Dallas Green was holding that sucker, too long my friend too long!

November 5, 2008  09:39 AM ET

Egads!

All I saw were coach fired, and a picture of Charlie. I almost started an angry letter to President Obama. :P

November 5, 2008  10:43 AM ET
QUOTE(#2):

What a beatuiful picture

Hey...what were some of the "on-field incidents" he was reprimanded for?

November 5, 2008  11:59 AM ET

Willie Randolph needs a job and would be a good 3rd base coach. Plus, if Charlie really wants a low-key guy, Willie certainly meets that requirement.

 
November 6, 2008  08:18 AM ET

Man it feels good to be champions. Who got fired? All I hear is Phillies, Phillies, Phillies. Adios, and goodbye.

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