Wake-Up Call

On Thursday night, Phillies manager Charlie Manuel relieved hitting coach Milt Thompson of his duties. Milt had been with the Phillies in this capacity for six years, preceding Manuel. In addition, Thompson had spent five years with the Phillies in the 1980's and 1990's during his 13 year career. By all accounts Thompson is a good man, excellent teacher, and dedicated worker. Was it his fault that his players didn't hit this year? Was it his fault that they scored less than four runs in nearly 40% of their games? Was it his fault that so many players were/are injured? The answers are yes, yes, yes and yes. Really?

Milt Thompson was the sacrificial lamb. Management can't fire the players (easily). His firing sent a message to the team that they cost a good man his job. So far, the Phillies have taken the message to heart. In the three games since Thompson's firing, they have scored 20 runs and won three in a row. They have significantly improved their situational hitting, especially when men are on base. Is this a permanent change? Time will tell. I was at the games on Friday and Saturday and saw a team that seemed to have regained their swagger. Phillies fans hope it lasts past the weekend if we hope to make it to the World Series for the third year in a row.

Does a message ever get sent in your organization? The bottom line in sports and business (both for and non profit) is to get results. It is up to the leaders in the organization to get results. If they don't, then changes have to be made. It is up to individual leaders and managers to drive results in a values-driven way to generate positive organizational results. If they don't, the time consuming and painful process of documenting poor performance begins. How an organization sends the message and follow up actions will determine the strength of the organization and development of the team.

Personnel changes are always difficult, especially in the middle of a season or project. Milt Thompson will land on his feet as do many who face the same challenge. Let's hope the Phillies get the message and save their own jobs.