Charlie Manuel, the former manager of the Philadelphia Phillies, experienced a stroke while undergoing a medical procedure in Florida on Saturday, according to a statement released by the team. His recovery over the next 24 hours will be crucial.
The team stated, “The Phillies have been informed that while undergoing a medical procedure today in a Florida hospital, Charlie Manuel suffered a stroke. The hospital acted quickly and was able to remove a blood clot. We ask that you keep Charlie in your thoughts and prayers as he recovers.”
Charlie Manuel, who is 79 years old, frequently attends Phillies’ spring training games in Florida and was present for home games at Citizens Bank Park during the team’s 2008 World Series championship season. He managed the Phillies from 2005-2013, leading them to a record of 780-636 (.551) during his nine seasons.
Prior to his time in Philadelphia, Manuel managed the Cleveland team from 2000-2002, amassing a 220-190 (.537) record. With a career managerial record of 1,000-826 (.548), he has won six division titles, two pennants, and the 2008 World Series. Manuel was honored by being added to the Phillies Wall of Fame in 2014.
Before his managerial career, Manuel played in the Major Leagues as an outfielder for the Minnesota Twins and Los Angeles Dodgers from 1969-1975. He also had a stint in Japan from 1976-1981. Manuel began his coaching career in the minor leagues with the Twins in the early 1980s.
