Jeffrey Flanagan of MLB.com reports that the Royals have chosen former major league catcher Mike Matheny as their new manager.
Matheny, 49, has been widely considered the favorite for the job since Ned Yost announced his retirement earlier this month. Matheny joined the Royals organization as a special advisor to the GM last offseason.
Matheny was the Cardinals manager from 2012 until July of 2018 when he was fired. He went 591-474 and led the Cardinals to the pennant in 2013. Ultimately, clubhouse issues potentially played a role in Matheny being removed from manager in St. Louis.
It was reported early in the Mets managerial search (still ongoing) that they contacted Matheny, though he was said to be concentrating on the Royals job.
Prior to the Royals hiring Matheny, the Phillies hired Joe Girardi, Cubs chose David Ross, Padres went with Jayce Tingler, and the Angels brought back Joe Maddon.
The Mets, Giants, and Pirates have yet to announce their picks for new manager.
