Dodgers manager Mattingly out after playoff flop

Dodgers manager Mattingly out after playoff flop

LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles Dodgers parted company with general manager Don Mattingly on Thursday after the iconic franchise's latest postseason disappointment.

Manager Don Mattingly of the Los Angeles Dodgers, pictured on October 15, 2015, reportedly left the club after turning down the offer of an extension to his existing contract, which has one year remaining

ESPN reported that Mattingly left the club after turning down the offer of an extension to his existing contract, which has one year remaining.

The development comes after the Dodgers were beaten in the playoffs by the New York Mets, who booked their place in the World Series on Wednesday with victory over the Chicago Cubs to clinch the National League.

Dodgers President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said Mattingly, who had been appointed by his predecessor Ned Colletti, had left the franchise as part of a desire to make a fresh start.

"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."

Mattingly said he was "honored and proud" to have had the opportunity to manage the Dodgers.

"I've enjoyed my experiences and relationships with the organization's staff and players throughout my eight years in LA.

"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," Mattingly said.

Mattingly led the Dodgers to three consecutive postseason campaigns but despite the team having the highest payroll in Major League Baseball, saw the club dumped out of the first round of the playoffs in 2014 and 2015.

The Dodgers have failed to reach the World Series since 1988.

After succeeding Joe Torre five years ago, Mattingly steered the Dodgers to a .551 winning percentage (446-363) but couldn't plot a path to the World Series.

Mattingly, 54, a revered first baseman with the New York Yankees, came to the Dodgers as a coach for Torre, taking over on a three-year contract.

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