Phillies GM Preston Mattingly Eyes Potential Playoff Showdown with Dodgers’ Clayton Kershaw
As the Philadelphia Phillies gear up for a postseason push, general manager Preston Mattingly finds himself in a unique position. His journey to this point has been anything but conventional, intertwined with the legacy of the Los Angeles Dodgers and their ace, Clayton Kershaw.
A Shared History with Kershaw
Mattingly, the son of former Dodgers player and manager Don Mattingly, was drafted by the Dodgers in the 31st round of the 2006 MLB draft. That same year, Kershaw was selected in the first round, beginning a storied career that has seen him become one of the game’s most respected pitchers. The two were once minor league roommates, their paths diverging as Mattingly, a utility player primarily in left field and second base, peaked at advanced Class-A Rancho Cucamonga. After a brief stint in the Yankees’ organization, he decided to retire from baseball in 2011.
Rather than continuing in his father’s footsteps, Mattingly pivoted to basketball, playing three seasons of Division I basketball at Lamar University. He eventually returned to baseball, ascending the ranks to director of player development with the San Diego Padres before taking a similar role with the Phillies. His trajectory culminated in his promotion to general manager last November.
Phillies on the Cusp of Playoff Glory
Now, Mattingly’s Phillies are on the brink of clinching a postseason berth, sitting comfortably at 81-59 and holding a six-game lead over the New York Mets in the National League East standings. The looming possibility of facing the Dodgers—his former organization and Kershaw—adds an intriguing layer to the Phillies’ playoff aspirations.
In a recent conversation with the Philadelphia Inquirer’s Scott Lauber on the “Phillies Extra” show, Mattingly expressed his admiration for Kershaw, who continues to anchor the Dodgers’ rotation at 37 years old. “Anything Clayton does doesn’t surprise me,” he said. The two maintain communication throughout the season, sharing insights and encouragement despite the competitive nature of their respective roles.
A Complicated Rivalry
Should the two teams meet in the playoffs, Mattingly’s feelings would be mixed. “If we were to match up in the playoffs, that may be the one time I’m not pulling for him,” he admitted. “It would be exciting to sit up in the suite and watch him, and hopefully the Phillies come out on top.”
Kershaw, who has been a pivotal force for the Dodgers, is expected to play a crucial role in any postseason series. After a rocky start to the season, where he allowed five runs in four innings against the San Francisco Giants, Kershaw has rebounded spectacularly. Since then, he has posted a remarkable 9-2 record with a 2.92 ERA, showcasing the talent that has earned him accolades throughout his career. Notably, he has not yet faced the Phillies this season, and Mattingly seems content to keep it that way for now.
As the playoffs approach, the anticipation builds. With Mattingly at the helm of the Phillies and Kershaw continuing to defy age, a potential clash between these two storied figures of baseball could prove to be a highlight of the postseason.
