PHILADELPHIA -- Larry Bowa is staying with the Phillies.
A source confirmed on Monday that the Phillies have asked Bowa to remain in the organization, although he is unlikely to return as a member of the coaching staff. Philly.com first reported that Bowa has been asked back.
The team announced on Friday that Pete Mackanin will not return next season as manager. Phillies general manager Matt Klentak told Mackanin's coaches that the new manager will hire his own staff. They can reapply for their jobs, but there is no guarantee that they will get them. In the meantime, they are free to look elsewhere for employment.
Bowa, 71, was Mackanin's bench coach. He said on Friday that he wanted to remain in the organization in some capacity. He has spent 33 of his 52 years in professional baseball with the Phillies.
"I've been in this uniform longer than anybody, since the Phillies existed," Bowa said. "My No. 1 priority is to stay in this organization. That's all I'm going to say about that. That's No. 1."
Bowa could work in an advisory role in the front office, or work as an instructor, perhaps in Spring Training or throughout the season in the Minor Leagues.
"You know, I don't know right now if it's on or off [the field], as long as it involves the Phillies," Bowa said. "This is my home. This is where I grew up. People recognize me as a Phillie. You guys see me work every day. I'm relentless when it comes to that. So if they have something in mind, I'm going sit down and talk with them and see where it goes."