The Philadelphia Phillies have officially named Don Mattingly as the club’s new bench coach on their major league coaching staff for the 2026 season, a move confirmed by the organization on Monday morning. Mattingly, 64, joins Manager Rob Thomson’s staff, bringing decades of baseball experience as a player, coach, and manager.
Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski and Thomson praised the veteran baseball lifer’s knowledge and leadership. Mattingly replaces Mike Calitri, who shifts into a newly created major league field coordinator role. His hiring completes a significant offseason addition to an already deep Phillies coaching group.
The Phillies have hired Don Mattingly as bench coach on the major league coaching staff.
Welcome to Philly, Don! pic.twitter.com/tKno3xO9F4
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) January 5, 2026
Mattingly’s Legendary Playing Career
Don Mattingly is best known for his 14-season career (1982–1995) as a first baseman for the New York Yankees, where he became one of the premier hitters and defensive players of his era. Known affectionately as “Donnie Baseball,” his career highlights include:
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2,153 career hits, including 442 doubles.
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222 career home runs.
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1,099 career RBIs and 1,007 runs scored.
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.307 career batting average — one of the highest in his era.
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Nine Gold Glove Awards for defensive excellence at first base.
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Three Silver Slugger Awards recognizing his offensive prowess.
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1985 American League MVP.
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Six All-Star selections during his career.
Although Mattingly’s career coincided with some frustration — most notably never appearing in a World Series despite the Yankees’ successes before and after his playing days — he remains widely respected for his steady excellence and consistency at the plate and in the field.
After the Playing Days: A Life in Coaching and Managing
Following his retirement as a player in 1995, Mattingly transitioned into coaching and managing, carving out a long second act in baseball:
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Yankees Coach (2004–2010): Mattingly began his post-playing career on the big league coaching staff, working under Joe Torre.
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Los Angeles Dodgers Manager (2011–2015): He managed the Dodgers for five seasons.
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Miami Marlins Manager (2016–2022): Mattingly took the reins in Miami and won National League Manager of the Year in 2020.
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Toronto Blue Jays Bench Coach (2023–2025): Most recently, he spent three seasons as a bench coach in Toronto, including helping guide the team to a World Series appearance before departing after the 2025 season.
Across his managerial career, Mattingly amassed a record of 889 wins and 950 losses, reflecting his extensive time leading big league clubs.
Family Ties and Phillies Fit
Mattingly’s move to Philadelphia also carries a personal dimension: he’ll now work within the same organization where his son, Preston Mattingly, serves as general manager.
The hire brings a seasoned baseball mind to one of the NL’s most competitive clubs. With his combination of elite playing pedigree and managerial experience, Mattingly adds a respected voice and steady influence to the Phillies’ dugout as they embark on the 2026 season.
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