The San Francisco Giants have made a major change in their managerial staff, as Gabe Kapler has been relieved of his duties effective immediately. The decision comes after a disappointing season for the Giants, with a second-half collapse that ultimately cost them a wild-card spot.
Giants president Farhan Zaidi recommended the managerial change to the ownership, who approved the decision to fire Kapler. Kapler, who led the Giants to a franchise-record 107-win season in 2021, still had one more year remaining on his contract. This marks the first time since 1985 that a Giants manager has been let go with time remaining on their contract.
The collapse of the Giants in the second half of the season, including a poor 8-16 record in September, led to the need for change. Kapler had previously faced similar disappointing finishes in September while managing the Philadelphia Phillies in 2018-19, which eventually led to his departure from the team.
Despite the Giants’ reputation for dugout stability, with managers like Dusty Baker and Bruce Bochy having long tenures with the team, Kapler’s managerial style seemed to lack the necessary clubhouse accountability. Respected players such as Logan Webb and Mike Yastrzemski vocalized their concerns about the team’s lack of a winning culture and the need for change.
Kapler’s firing in Philadelphia had come as a surprise to some, but he quickly found a new opportunity with the Giants. However, it is now clear that Kapler and Zaidi, the Giants’ president, were not a package deal. Zaidi had put in significant effort to bring Kapler on board, despite skepticism from fans.
Zaidi expressed his respect for Kapler and acknowledged his contributions to the team, especially during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Giants organization thanked Kapler for his dedication and wished him luck in his future endeavors.
The Giants have yet to announce an interim manager, with third base coach Mark Hallberg and bench coach Kai Correa being the leading candidates. Finding a permanent successor may be complicated, as it remains uncertain if ownership will extend Zaidi’s contract, which expires in 2024. Bob Melvin, the current manager of the San Diego Padres, could be a strong consideration if he becomes available.
With major changes on the horizon for the Giants, fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching to see how the team regroups and addresses the issues that led to their disappointing season. The Giants have a storied history of success, and the organization will undoubtedly be looking to restore the winning culture that has defined the franchise for so long.