CLEVELAND — Eric Wedge lost his job and kept his uniform when he was fired Wednesday as manager of the Indians, who are in the final days of a terrible season that began with enormous expectations.
Despite being told he would not be back next season, Wedge will manage the last six games of his seventh year with Cleveland.
“I still wanted to finish what we started this year,” said Wedge, who led the Indians to one playoff appearance since 2003 and went through two rebuilding projects with the club. “I felt it was the right thing to do.”
General manager Mark Shapiro said he and owners Larry and Paul Dolan came to a collective decision on Wedge’s future “fairly recently” and that Cleveland’s coaches were told Tuesday night that they would not be retained for the 2010 season.
Riggleman in the running
WASHINGTON — Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo said interim manager Jim Riggleman is a “legitimate candidate” to get the job on a permanent basis for 2010.
Riggleman was promoted from bench coach in July to replace fired manager Manny Acta.
Footnotes.
Phillies left-hander Jamie Moyer will have season-ending surgery after tearing muscles in his groin and lower abdomen.
• All-Star Game MVP Carl Crawford said he is interested in discussing a new, long-term deal with the Rays, who are expected to pick up a $10 million club option for the 2010 season.
• White Sox second baseman Chris Getz will have surgery for a sports hernia Friday.
• The Reds activated outfielder Chris Dickerson from the 15-day disabled list.
• Giants second baseman Freddy Sanchez had surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee and should be ready for spring training.
The Associated Press
