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Press Conference Wrap Up: Mattingly, Dodgers Execs Discuss Manager's Departure

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — After managing the Los Angeles Dodgers for five seasons, Don Mattingly will not return for the 2016 season.

Dodger President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman, General Manager Farhan Zaidi and Senior Vice-President of Baseball Operations Josh Byrnes met and talked extensively with Mattingly for several days following the conclusion of the season.

The team reported on Thursday that they have "mutually agreed" to part ways after the team's recent loss to the Mets in the NLDS.

Don Mattingly was on-hand to speak to the media after the announcement.

He guided the Dodgers to a .551 winning percentage (446-363) and three National League West titles in his five years with the team.

MATTINGLY'S STATEMENT

"I'm honored and proud to have had the opportunity to manage the Los Angeles Dodgers," said Mattingly. "I've enjoyed my experiences and relationships with the organization's staff and players throughout my eight years in L.A. After meeting with Andrew, Farhan and Josh, we all felt that a fresh start would be good for both the organization and me. We talked about several scenarios, including my returning in 2016. However, I believe this is the right time and right move for both parties. I'm still very passionate about managing and hope to get the opportunity in the near future. In the meantime, I want to thank the Dodger organization, the city and our fans for the opportunity and wish the club well going forward."

Dodgers President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman completed Mattingly for his service as Dodgers manager, but indicated that the team needed to go in another direction in order to succeed.

FRIEDMAN'S STATEMENT

"As our end of season process began, we discussed the past year, our future goals, necessary changes, roster needs and other matters relating to next year's campaign," Friedman said.

"As the dialogue progressed daily, it evolved to a point where we all agreed that it might be best for both sides to start fresh. We decided to think about it for a couple of days and when we spoke again, we felt comfortable that this was the direction to go. I have the utmost respect for Donnie and thoroughly enjoyed working with him this past season. I want to thank him for his hard work and collaboration, as well as his accomplishments, including three consecutive National League West titles. I wish him nothing but success in the future."

Friedman also noted that the decision was not based on the team's recent defeat against the Mets in the NLDS

Dodgers General Manager Farhan Zaidi made an ominous comment regarding the rest of the Dodgers coaching staff.

As for Mattingly's replacement, Zaidi would not name any names of possible candidates, but offered some qualities that he is looking for in the new Dodgers manager.

According to Friedman and Zaidi, the Dodgers hope to have a new manager hired before the Winter Meetings which take place on December 7th through the 10th.

 

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