A look back at some more late season news and birthdays from the past.

Phillies Historical Events on September 28:

  • In 1983, the Phillies clinched the National League East title with a 13–6 win over the Cubs at Wrigley Field. This victory marked the franchise’s 7,000th win and was part of the “Wheeze Kids” season, which culminated in a trip to the World Series.
  • In 2003, the Phillies played their final game at Veterans Stadium, losing 5–2 to the Braves. The day featured a lengthy ceremony and a memorable eulogy by broadcaster Harry Kalas, closing an iconic chapter in Phillies history.
  • In 2011, the Phillies defeated the Braves 4–3 in extra innings to achieve their franchise record 102nd win of the season. That day also saw manager Charlie Manuel become the winningest manager in team history with his 646th victory.

Phillies Birthdays on September 28:

  • Tommy Greene (born 1967): A right-handed pitcher famous for throwing a no-hitter in 1991 against the Expos. He was a key figure during the Phillies’ 1993 pennant season and later worked as a team broadcaster.
  • Tommy Joseph (born 1991): A first baseman and catcher who played for the Phillies primarily between 2016 and 2017, known for hitting 43 home runs over two seasons. Joseph is now a coach with the Baltimore Orioles.
  • Cameron Rupp (born 1988): Played in parts of five seasons with the Phillies as a catcher. Rupp is currently an assistant baseball coach at the University of Texas Arlington.
  • Doug Clemens (born 1939): An outfielder who had a brief stint with the Phillies in 1966 but maintained a nearly decade-long MLB career.

A Deeper Dive – Charlie Manuel

Charlie Manuel’s legacy in Philadelphia Phillies history is defined by resilience, leadership, and winning. Though his playing career was modest—he hit .198 over parts of six MLB seasons with the Twins and Dodgers—Manuel found his true calling in the dugout. After a successful stint managing in Japan and coaching in Cleveland, he became Phillies manager in 2005 and transformed the franchise into a perennial contender.

Manuel’s tenure with the Phillies lasted from 2005 to 2013, during which he compiled a record of 780 wins and 636 losses, good for a .551 winning percentage. He led the team to five consecutive National League East titles from 2007 to 2011, a feat unmatched in franchise history. Under his guidance, the Phillies reached the postseason five times, won two National League pennants (2008 and 2009), and captured the 2008 World Series title—their first since 1980.

The 2008 championship team was a reflection of Manuel’s steady hand and player-first approach. He fostered a clubhouse culture built on trust and accountability, allowing stars like Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, and Jimmy Rollins to flourish. His calm demeanor and Southern charm endeared him to fans and players alike, earning him the affectionate nickname “Uncle Charlie.”

In 2011, Manuel reached a milestone that cemented his place in Phillies lore. On September 28, the Phillies defeated the Braves 4–3 in extra innings, giving Manuel his 646th win as manager—surpassing Gene Mauch to become the winningest manager in franchise history. That season also saw the team set a franchise record with 102 wins, a testament to Manuel’s ability to guide a veteran roster through the rigors of a long season.

Here are the top five winningest managers in Phillies history:

  1. Charlie Manuel – 780 wins
  2. Gene Mauch – 645 wins
  3. Harry Wright – 636 wins
  4. Danny Ozark – 594 wins
  5. Jim Fregosi – 431 wins

Manuel’s influence extended beyond wins and losses. He was instrumental in developing young talent and served as a mentor to players long after his managerial days ended. In 2019, he returned briefly as the team’s hitting coach, underscoring his enduring connection to the organization.

His induction into the Phillies Wall of Fame in 2014 was a fitting tribute to a man who helped usher in one of the most successful eras in team history. Charlie Manuel didn’t just win games, he changed the culture of Phillies baseball, elevating expectations and delivering results. His name remains synonymous with winning in Philadelphia.

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