Three reasons why Phillies extending manager Rob Thomson is the right move

Let's explore why this is a good decision for the Phillies. 

On-field success

Thomson has seen plenty of success since being named manager in June 2022. The team has reached the postseason each year under his leadership, including winning their first National League East division title since 2011 in 2024.

Thomson's winning percentage of .575 is the best mark by a Phillies manager since 1890.

Winning at home in front of your fans is always crucial to players. The Phillies were 54-27 at Citizens Bank Park this season, the best home record in baseball.

Players love him

The Phillies players love playing for Thomson. From the nicknames they've given him, like "Topper" and "Philly Rob," to supporting him by wearing "I Ride With Philly Rob" shirts, it's evident that the clubhouse enjoys playing under his leadership.

MLB.com's Todd Zolecki wrote about the kind of person Thomson is in a story in October 2022, noting, "He has an easy-going way about him. He is warm and friendly. He can tell a joke and share a good story. But, most important in the clubhouse and in the dugout, he is even-keeled and true to his word."

In addition to bringing Thomson back for another year, his coaching staff will also return. Phillies players would talk throughout the season about their love for the coaches and how hard they pushed them to play their best baseball.

Benefits the young players

Thomson has been pivotal in developing younger players like Johan Rojas, Brandon Marsh and Bryson Stott.

Phillies managing partner John Middleton cited Thomson's ability to work with younger players shortly after he was named manager when speaking with Zolecki. 

"Dave [Dombrowski] just thought that Rob was a softer touch and was a little more patient with some of the younger players. And that was our particular case. There are other cases where that wasn’t the right thing to do, but it was in our case at that moment in time.”

Confidence in baseball fluctuates with every game. Thomson's contract extension should give the young players relief that they'll be able to play under someone who cares about their growth.