Phillies Extend Rob Thomson Through 2026 After Third Consecutive Playoff Run
PHILADELPHIA— The Philadelphia Phillies have rewarded manager Rob Thomson with a one-year contract extension, ensuring his tenure will continue through the 2026 season. The 61-year-old has led the team to the playoffs in three straight seasons, making him the most successful manager in terms of winning percentage in the franchise’s long history.
Thomson, who guided the team to the 2022 World Series and a National League Championship Series appearance in 2023, helped secure the Phillies’ first NL East division title since 2011 this past season. However, the campaign ended in disappointment when they were eliminated in the National League Division Series by the New York Mets in four games.
Thomson’s .575 winning percentage tops all Phillies managers. His previous contract was set to expire following the 2025 season.
When asked about the new deal, Thomson expressed his satisfaction with the arrangement: “I’m good with going year to year,” he said Tuesday. “I’ve said many times — this is the only place I want to be. This will be my final stop.”
President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski emphasized the value Thomson brings to the team, praising not only his leadership but also the entire coaching staff, all of whom will return for the 2025 season — including hitting coach Kevin Long, who has drawn some criticism from fans.
“Every manager says it, but I genuinely believe we have the best coaching staff in baseball,” Thomson added.
The Phillies finished 2024 with a 95-67 record, a mark that reflects the club’s strong core and overall stability under Thomson. Dombrowski reaffirmed his confidence in the team’s direction.
“They led us to 95 wins,” Dombrowski said. “I think we have a very efficient and committed staff. It’s a good group.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
Philadelphia heads into the offseason with a strong roster foundation. Stars like Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, J.T. Realmuto, Zack Wheeler, and Aaron Nola are expected to return, giving the club a solid core. Young talents such as Alec Bohm, Brandon Marsh, and Bryson Stott, along with recent trade acquisitions Austin Hays and Carlos Estevez, bring additional intrigue.
Dombrowski believes the current roster is well-equipped to contend: “I think this team is capable of winning a World Series. We’ve come close. We’re not lacking star power — in fact, we probably have as much as anyone else.”
Still, he acknowledged that some level of roster adjustment may be necessary.
“You have to stay flexible. We’re not necessarily looking to add more stars, but we’ll always explore ways to improve. That’s just part of being competitive,” he said.
Philadelphia’s payroll was among the highest in MLB at $249 million, trailing only the Dodgers, Yankees, and Mets. All three of those teams remain active in the postseason, raising the stakes for continued performance.
Dombrowski also noted that ownership remains supportive, but financial management remains a factor: “John [Middleton] has been generous and supportive, but we still need to be mindful of payroll commitments as we build into the future.”
Thomson’s Journey and Impact
Since taking over as manager from Joe Girardi on June 3, 2022, Thomson has compiled a 280-155 record. Under his leadership, the Phillies have transformed into a perennial playoff contender, breaking through long-standing droughts and restoring relevance to the franchise.
Dombrowski made it clear that avoiding a “lame-duck” season for Thomson was a priority. “He’s done an excellent job. Not many clubs can say they’ve made the postseason three years in a row,” he said. “It’s important to have stability, and Rob deserves the extension for everything he’s done for us.”
Thomson first joined the Phillies as bench coach in 2018, under former manager Gabe Kapler. Before arriving in Philadelphia, Thomson spent nearly three decades with the New York Yankees organization (1990–2017), including ten years on the Yankees’ big-league coaching staff, serving as bench coach and third base coach.
His experience, consistency, and leadership have earned him widespread respect — not just from the front office but from the players and fans who have embraced his steady presence and postseason success
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