Cubs announce Joe Maddon is not returning |
ST. LOUIS — The long-awaited announced regarding the fate of Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon was finally made prior to Sunday's regular-season finale between the Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals. Maddon met with Cubs President of Baseball Operations Theo Epstein following Saturday night's contest in order to discuss his future with the club.
Maddon addressed the media in a press conference alongside Epstein. Together, Epstein and Maddon announced that they had mutually decided the night before that it would be in the best interest of both parties to move on. Maddon's contract expires at season's end and will not be renewed, bringing to a close a five-year stretch that included Maddon leading the Cubs to a World Series title in 2016. Epstein stated that Maddon will become a managing free agent while the Cubs begin their search for a new manager. The Cubs are going to miss the playoffs this year for the first time with Maddon in charge, and Epstein said that the changing of the guard will be a "win-win" for everybody involved. Maddon, who said that not a single tear was shed during his conversation with Epstein over wine on Saturday night, agreed, stating that "change is good." Theo Epstein, on the meeting Saturday night with Joe Maddon. pic.twitter.com/eBIembfcw6 “It’s a good moment for everybody.” —Joe Maddon pic.twitter.com/bRAENyFJ89 Theo and Joe announce the end. Both agree “this type of change is a win-win”. pic.twitter.com/8CdXvGjaSd Theo called the final meeting a “special night.” They shared some wine and agree to part ways. joe: “Change is good... eternally grateful” to Cubs. Joe talked about Mick Jagger still rocking. Says he’ll always be a Cubs fan. “No tears shed.” Theo said decision was a “gradual process.” It was not about “this season or the last 5 years” but about “looking forward to the next 5 years... Sometimes it’s just time.” The full press conference can be viewed here:
