It’s been a tumultuous few weeks for Texas Rangers manager Jeff Banister, who was fired after leading the team to the World Series in 2016. The Rangers had a disappointing 2018 season, finishing last in the American League West with a 67-95 record. This led to Banister’s dismissal on September 21st.
Banister had been with the Rangers since 2014, and during his tenure the team made the playoffs three times and won the AL West twice. He was also named AL Manager of the Year in 2015.
Banister’s firing came as a surprise to many, as he had led the team to the World Series just two years prior. However, the Rangers had been struggling for some time, and the decision was made to move on from Banister.
The news of Banister’s dismissal came just days after he was also fired by the Pittsburgh Pirates. He had been with the Pirates since 2010, and during his tenure the team made the playoffs three times and won the NL Wild Card twice.
Banister’s firing by both teams is a reminder that even successful managers can be dismissed if their teams are not performing up to expectations. While Banister had a successful run with both teams, his recent struggles led to his dismissal.
It remains to be seen what Banister will do next, but it’s clear that he has had an impressive career in baseball. He has proven himself to be a successful manager, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him back in the dugout soon.
