Former MLB manager Charlie Manuel suffered a stroke Saturday while undergoing a medical procedure in Florida and faces a “crucial” 24 hours, the Philadelphia Phillies announced.
“The hospital was able to attend to Charlie immediately and subsequently remove a blood clot,” the team wrote. “The next 24 hours will be crucial to his recovery, and Charlie’s family asks that you keep him in your thoughts and prayers at this time.”
Manuel, 79, has a long history of health issues, though the Phillies did not disclose the reason for his operation. In 2019, he was in intensive care for life-threatening health problems that required a bowel resection. In previous years, he survived a heart attack, quadruple bypass surgery, diverticulitis, diabetes and kidney cancer, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Manuel, who was added to the Phillies’ Wall of Fame in 2014, managed for 12 MLB seasons — three with the Cleveland Indians and nine with Philadelphia, including a World Series title in 2008. Under Manuel, the Phillies hung five straight NL East banners (2007 to 2011) and also reached the 2009 World Series, falling to the New York Yankees.
His 780 wins with the Phillies are the most in franchise history, and Manuel’s teams never posted a losing record in the 10 seasons he managed without being fired midseason.
Known for his patience and deep understanding of hitting as a manager, as well as for his storytelling, Manuel maintained a notable presence in Philadelphia. In 2019, he returned to the Phillies as the hitting coach through the end of the season; the team currently lists him as a senior adviser to the general manager.
Manuel also played six years in the major leagues with the Minnesota Twins and Los Angeles Dodgers and spent five impressive seasons in Japan that included 1979 Pacific League MVP honors.
Ruben Amaro Jr., who previously served as general manager above Manuel, sent his well wishes Saturday.
