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amead17 · 11-24-2025, 11:50 AM

SPORTING TIMES — OCTOBER 25, 1910
By George F. Winthrop, Sporting Times

RED SOX AND ATHLETICS DISMISS THEIR SKIPPERS AS SEASON ENDS

The close of the base ball season brings not only the tallying of records but, for some, the reckoning of judgment. Today two American League managers—each with championship laurels in his past—found himself out of a job as clubs seek fresh direction after disappointing campaigns.

Jim Manning Dismissed in Boston

The first and perhaps most surprising dismissal came in Boston, where Jim Manning has been relieved of his duties after four seasons at the helm of the Red Sox. Manning’s tenure was, until this year, one of the most successful stretches in club history: two pennants and a world series title in his first two seasons, followed by a strong second-place finish last year.

But 1910 brought a collapse to seventh place, and with the general manager also shown the door, Boston ownership elected to “clean house” entirely. Club officials stated that it was better to reset now, during a downturn, in hopes of rapidly restoring the club to its former championship form.

Manning admitted the decision came as a blow:
“I won’t pretend it doesn’t sting. I believed the work we’d done—the titles we’d won—had earned me a chance to right the ship. But base ball moves quick, and sometimes yesterday’s victories don’t carry into tomorrow.”

Chris Smith Let Go in Philadelphia

The second dismissal occurred in Philadelphia, where Chris Smith has been removed after seven seasons guiding the Athletics. Smith led the club to back-to-back world series triumphs in 1904 and 1905, but the years since have trended steadily downward, ending in a last-place finish this season—the worst record in the major leagues.

Athletics ownership stated plainly that a change was required to “reverse the club’s direction” and rebuild toward competitiveness.

Smith accepted the news with grace:
“This game gives and it takes. I’ve had the great fortune to lead a fine club to championships, and I’ve seen hard years too. If the owners believe a new hand is needed, I can only tip my cap and wish the fellows well.”

With these two long-tenured skippers departing, the winter months will bring not only roster moves but managerial hunts in both cities—each seeking a leader to guide them back toward the top.

11-24-2025, 11:50 AM	#440
amead17 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Dec 2013 Posts: 8,850	Managerial Changes SPORTING TIMES — OCTOBER 25, 1910 By George F. Winthrop, Sporting Times RED SOX AND ATHLETICS DISMISS THEIR SKIPPERS AS SEASON ENDS The close of the base ball season brings not only the tallying of records but, for some, the reckoning of judgment. Today two American League managers—each with championship laurels in his past—found himself out of a job as clubs seek fresh direction after disappointing campaigns. Jim Manning Dismissed in Boston The first and perhaps most surprising dismissal came in Boston, where Jim Manning has been relieved of his duties after four seasons at the helm of the Red Sox. Manning’s tenure was, until this year, one of the most successful stretches in club history: two pennants and a world series title in his first two seasons, followed by a strong second-place finish last year. But 1910 brought a collapse to seventh place, and with the general manager also shown the door, Boston ownership elected to “clean house” entirely. Club officials stated that it was better to reset now, during a downturn, in hopes of rapidly restoring the club to its former championship form. Manning admitted the decision came as a blow: “I won’t pretend it doesn’t sting. I believed the work we’d done—the titles we’d won—had earned me a chance to right the ship. But base ball moves quick, and sometimes yesterday’s victories don’t carry into tomorrow.” Chris Smith Let Go in Philadelphia The second dismissal occurred in Philadelphia, where Chris Smith has been removed after seven seasons guiding the Athletics. Smith led the club to back-to-back world series triumphs in 1904 and 1905, but the years since have trended steadily downward, ending in a last-place finish this season—the worst record in the major leagues. Athletics ownership stated plainly that a change was required to “reverse the club’s direction” and rebuild toward competitiveness. Smith accepted the news with grace: “This game gives and it takes. I’ve had the great fortune to lead a fine club to championships, and I’ve seen hard years too. If the owners believe a new hand is needed, I can only tip my cap and wish the fellows well.” With these two long-tenured skippers departing, the winter months will bring not only roster moves but managerial hunts in both cities—each seeking a leader to guide them back toward the top.