The Orioles announced Friday afternoon they picked up Manager Dave Trembley’s contract option for next season and gave him an option for 2010.
“I always knew I was coming back,” Trembley said. “I never doubted one bit that I’d be coming back, because I’m dealing with people that are honest and fair. That’s what’s important here. It’s never been about me, it’s been about the Baltimore Orioles and other matters that were significantly more important to get done.”
Orioles president Andy MacPhail preferred to get past the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline, the Aug. 15 draft contract deadline and the Sept. 1 roster expansion period before addressing Trembley’s contract.
Trembley entered the weekend with a record of 103-129 as a major league manager after compiling a 1,369-1,413 record in 20 years as a minor league manager.
Trembley, 56, began the 2007 season as the bullpen coach, and also served temporarily as bench coach before taking over for Sam Perlozzo as interim manager on June 18 of last season. He was named the full-time manager on Aug. 22, 2007 – at the same time his contract for 2008, and the option for 2009 were introduced.
The Orioles went 40-53 under Trembley last season.
The Orioles’ players are pleased Trembley will return next season. But the players also know the team needs more than simply continuity in the manager’s office to end a streak of 10 – going on 11 – losing seasons.
“I love Dave,” Roberts said. “But it’s not the manager that’s going to take us to the next level. We have to do it on the field. The manager can only do so much. I’m glad he’ll be back, because I think he’s done a great job.”
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