Jim Riggleman‘s resignation from the Nationals after winning 11 of 12 games was stunning. Here are five other bizarre resignations:
5. Lute Olson » In a span of 18 months, the Arizona coach scuttled two designated successors; underwent a divorce; took an unexplained, yearlong leave of absence; and finally resigned after 25 years just two days into the 2008 preseason. A few days later, Olson’s physician revealed he had had a stroke and suffered from depression.
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4. Billy Donovan » In 2007, after winning his second straight NCAA championship at Florida, Donovan took a job with the Orlando Magic but three days later was released from his commitment to return to Florida.
3. Bobby Petrino » He resigned from the Atlanta Falcons during the first year of a five-year contract, telling his players via a note left in the locker room. Later that same day, Petrino was announced as the new coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks.
2. Bill Belichick » At the news conference introducing him as the coach of the New York Jets, Belichick resigned. Within days he was hired by the New England Patriots, who were forced to send a first-round pick to the Jets.
1. Johnny Keane » After winning the 1964 World Series, Keane shocked management, resigning after 35 years in the organization. A few days later, he was hired by the Yankees, the team the Cardinals had beaten in the series.
