Dodgers' Friedman: Mattingly will 'definitely' be back as manager in 2015
Andrew Friedman was introduced to the Los Angeles media Friday and wasted no time pouring cold water on hot stove rumors.
The Dodgers' new president of baseball operations announced manager Don Mattingly will "definitely" return for a fifth season in 2015.
"I'm looking forward to working with Donnie for a long time," Friedman said during his introductory press conference.
President, Baseball Operations, Andrew Friedman talking to the media today. Ready to get to work for the Dodgers. pic.twitter.com/Oirt14fTzQ
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) October 17, 2014
Friedman's show of support comes amid speculation Tampa Bay Rays skipper Joe Maddon could join his former boss in Los Angeles. Mattingly is under contract through the 2016 season.
The Dodgers hired Friedman away from Tampa Bay last week after the former general manager led the budget-conscious Rays to four playoff appearances and six straight winning seasons.
Friedman now inherits a team that suffered its second straight early exit from the postseason despite fielding the most expensive roster in major-league history.
The Dodgers' second consecutive division title was hindered by inconsistent play and rumors of a divided clubhouse. Friedman, who has been labeled a Moneyball GM, said chemistry is often a narrative driven by the media after the fact.
"If you're a team with great chemistry and wins 70 games," he said, "I don't want those 25 guys."
Friedman also touched on a number of other issues, including the Dodgers' surplus of outfielders.
"If it's a problem, it's a tremendous problem to have," said the 37-year-old executive.
Friedman said the club is in the process of talking to people regarding the vacant GM position.