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Dave Martinez and Mike Rizzo
The Washington Nationals made a bold organizational shift, dismissing both manager Dave Martinez and President of Baseball Operations/GM Mike Rizzo, marking one of the most significant changes in recent franchise history.
With the team languishing at 37-53, anchored to the bottom of the NL East, principal owner Mark D. Lerner issued a thoughtful, yet pointed statement addressing the decision, highlighting both gratitude for past accomplishments and the need for new direction.
“On behalf of our family and the Washington Nationals organization, I first and foremost want to thank Mike and Davey for their contributions to our franchise and our city,” Lerner said.
Honoring Two Nationals Legends
In his statement, Lerner was careful to frame the decision as one made with respect and deep appreciation for both Martinez and Rizzo. Rizzo has been synonymous with the Nationals from struggling seasons to becoming a championship team.
“Mike helped make us who we are as an organization, and we’re so thankful to him for his hard work and dedication–not just on the field and in the front office, but in the community as well,” Lerner said.
Joining the front office in 2007 and taking the general manager reins in 2009, Rizzo constructed rosters that delivered multiple postseason appearances and culminated in the club’s historic 2019 World Series championship. Lerner described Rizzo’s leadership as instrumental not only for the team’s on-field success but also for his presence in the Washington community.
Martinez, affectionately known as “Davey,” earned heartfelt praise as well. Since taking over as manager in 2018, Martinez became a popular figure among players and fans alike, known for his upbeat personality and steady hand.
“Davey’s ability to connect with our staff, our players, our fans and our community set him apart. While this chapter has come to an end, we know that it doesn’t close the book on what should continue to be a long and successful career in baseball,” Lerner said.
His tenure, highlighted by the 2019 World Series triumph, left an indelible mark on Nationals history. Lerner’s words conveyed clear admiration for Martinez’s impact both in the dugout and beyond, acknowledging that parting ways was an emotional but necessary step.
The Need for a New Direction
While Lerner acknowledged the tremendous contributions of Martinez and Rizzo, he was equally candid about the current state of the franchise. He explained that despite the gratitude owed to both men, the on-field performance this season fell far below expectations. He described this moment as pivotal for the Nationals, emphasizing that standing still was no longer an option if the organization hoped to build a competitive future.
“Nationals fans have a lot to be optimistic about, and we see these changes as a difficult, but necessary move in a positive direction,” Lerner said. “As has been the case since my late father took control of the team almost 20 years ago, our family remains committed to winning and bringing another World Series trophy to Washington, D.C.”
The decision to part ways with two leaders so deeply connected to the franchise’s greatest moments signals just how seriously Lerner views the current situation. Though he avoided placing blame squarely on Martinez or Rizzo, Lerner was unambiguous in stating that new voices and perspectives were required to lead the Nationals through this crucial transition. It was a clear admission that the time had come for organizational change, even if it meant difficult conversations and painful goodbyes.
Interim Leadership and the Path Forward
In the immediate aftermath of the firings, Lerner announced that Mike DeBartolo would assume interim duties as general manager. Described as a smart and thoughtful executive, DeBartolo now holds the significant responsibility of steering the Nationals through the remainder of the season and preparing for the upcoming offseason.
“As we hold the №1 overall pick in this year’s MLB Draft and look ahead to the trade deadline, we are confident in his [DeBartolo] ability to lead the baseball operations staff through these next, important months.”
The search for a new manager will also begin soon, with Lerner suggesting that the organization is determined to find leadership capable of energizing the team and connecting with fans. The Nationals are clearly seeking figures who can not only handle the pressures of rebuilding but also maintain the standards and culture the club has worked so hard to establish. Lerner’s statement leaves no doubt that the franchise is committed to doing whatever it takes to return to winning ways.
Alyssa Polczynski Alyssa Polczynski is a multimedia journalist covering Major League Baseball for Heavy.com. She has experience as an editorial producer for MLB.com and contributed to the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR). More about Alyssa Polczynski
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