11.14.2011

St. Louis Cardinals Hire Mike Matheny to Replace Tony La Russa


Mike Matheny is dusting off his vast baseball knowledge and putting it to use with one of his old teams.

The 41-year-old former St. Louis Cardinals catcher was hired as the team's new manager Monday morning, replacing long-time skipper Tony La Russa. He's got some big shoes to fill, but catchers reportedly know the game better than anyone so we think he has a shot.

Matheny, who has been called a born leader by many of his former teammates and managers, played for the Cardinals from 2000-04, winning three of his four Gold Gloves there along with a World Series Championship. Unfortunately, his career came to an abrupt end in 2006 due to repeated concussions.

Matheny was one of six guys St. Louis interviewed to replace La Russa, including Terry Francona. So as adorable as he is, it's a little surprising he was hired considering the zero managerial experience he has.

We will say this: he didn't look half as terrified and confused as Robin Ventura did during his press conference.

[Viva El Birdos]

1 comment:

UnHoly Diver said...

Matheny is a company man, having worked closely with Mozeliak the last couple of years. He's exactly what the FO was looking for.

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