End of the Line

You don't often find a game where both managers know it's their final day in their positions. But that's exactly the mindset both Terry Collins and Pete Mackanin carry as the Phils host the Mets in this afternoon's season finale. Game 162 marks the end of disappointing campaigns for both clubs. The Mets expected to contend for a playoff spot before an unprecedent wave of injuries wiped out their starting rotation and cost them other key regulars ranging from Jeurys Familia to Yoenis Cespedes. The contract Collins, who managed New York to the 2015 NL pennant and a spot in last year's Wild Card game, expires today and the Mets have given loud and bold signals that he won't return.
The Phillies didn't expect to challenge the Nationals or Mets, but hoped their young core, bolstered by some short-term veterans, would help them approach the .500 marks. It never happened -- and despite positive signs during September, they've decided to move Mackanin from the dugout to a new role as "special advisor." Of course, since he'd already been extended through 2018, the organization wanted to get something for the money already committed to him.
Both on the other side of 65, Terry and Pete head into their final games in their respective positions. One can only imagine the "mixed emotions" churning in their minds and stomachs as they suit up.

A farewell to these baseball lifers who probably deserved a better fate, but were caught up by  their underachieving teams grabbing hold of the bottom two spots in the National League East.

The photo of Collins is from the Mets/Phillies game on Labor Day. Thanks to good friend of this blog Kristin Long for the sharing this Mackanin closeup.