The Philadelphia Phillies made a major shakeup early in the 2026 season, dismissing manager Rob Thomson after a disappointing 9–19 start that forced the organization to pursue a change.
Don Mattingly was named interim manager, and the move quickly paid off as the team began playing much better. Even so, Mattingly’s long-term future in the role remains uncertain beyond the 2026 season.
According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Phillies are expected to face a significant decision involving Alex Cora, the former Boston Red Sox manager. Cora is viewed as a strong candidate to reunite with Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski for the 2027 season.
Nightengale reported that while the New York Mets are interested in hiring Cora, he is still widely expected to end up in Philadelphia after previously turning down an offer connected to replacing Thomson, who was fired on April 28.
League expectations suggest the Phillies will bring Cora aboard next year, likely as the full-time manager, making it unlikely that Mattingly holds onto the position long term. Speculation linking Cora to Philadelphia has only intensified since both he and Thomson were let go early in the season.
Although Cora has stepped away from baseball for now, signs point to him joining the Phillies after the 2026 campaign. He has a strong managerial résumé and would be considered a solid long-term hire, even as some believe Mattingly has earned consideration after leading the team’s turnaround.
Despite interest from the Mets and possibly other teams seeking a new manager, the Phillies remain the clear favorite to land Cora once the season concludes.