Kansas City Royals Fire Manager After Another Last Place Season

While a small number of teams fired their manager during the season in 2022, it's normally this time of year when more organizations re-assess and hand out pink slips. It didn't take long, moments after their game concluded, for the Kansas City Royals to make a move.

The Kansas City Royals have fired manager Mike Matheny and pitching coach Cal Eldred, the team announced. First move in what’s expected to be a giant managerial carousel this winter.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) October 6, 2022

The Royals have fired manager Mike Matheny and pitching coach Cal Eldred. The Royals had a 165-218 record in three seasons under Matheny, and continued to be at or near the bottom of the AL Central Division with no sniff of the playoffs.

Despite introducing some high-level prospects, including Bobby Witt Jr., KC finished 2022 with a 65-97 record, once again last place in baseball's weakest division, 27 games back.

This continues a purge by owner John Sherman, who last month also fired longtime front-office executive Dayton Moore.

Matheny took the high road upon his release, with the following statement:

"Managing the Royals has been a true privilege. I'm thankful to so many, primarily Dayton Moore, and the coaches and players I've worked with...

"I came to the Royals knowing it was an organization of excellence and care, and was shown that care every single day. Royals fans should be excited about this group of players, and I look forward to watching them continue to grow."

Pitching was once again a disaster area for the Royals, as they had the fourth-worst ERA and the worst WHIP in the majors this season, leading to Eldred's demise as well.

Photo: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports