"A good ball club" - Yogi Berra, when asked about what makes a good manager.
Recent history has shown what a good baseball team can do to the perception of a manager.
Dusty Baker suddenly has his "magic" back now that the Reds have stocked up with great young talent, and veterans that still have the skills like Scott Rolen.
Joe Torre is suddenly just another guy now that the Dodgers consist of a mediocre roster.
Joe Girardi went from a failure in 2008 to a great manager again in 2009.
Terry Francona went from a failed Phillies manager to a great Red Sox manager.
Even ...
This season has not been a good season for many high-payroll MLB Franchises. The Red Sox have endured countless injuries, putting their backs against the wall for the Wild Card chase. The Tigers and Dodgers both see struggles to claw back into contention. The Astros, despite a payroll of over $90 million in 2010, were never even considered in the running for the playoffs, especially after a poor off-season of questionable signings. Three franchises, however, strike me as the most disappointing in 2010: The Cubs, Mariners, and Mets. Two teams were supremely bankrolled, while one was blessed with a ...
