Ranking the Top 5 greatest Phillies managers in franchise history

Throughout Philadelphia Phillies history, there have been some excellent managers, along with some who were average and some who were not good at all. The franchise has had several seasons without making the postseason, and the managers who have had playoff success are few and far between. Ultimately, that's what makes managers remembered fondly by fans.

In case you missed it, we've already ranked the five greatest catchers, first basemen, second basemen, shortstops, third basemen, starters, relievers, and outfielders in Phillies history.

Here are the top five greatest Phillies managers in franchise history.

No. 5: Eddie Sawyer

Eddie Sawyer had two stints as Phillies manager from 1948 to 1952 and 1958 to 1960. He had a bit more success during his first period as Philly's skipper and is most remembered for managing the 1950 team known as the "Whiz Kids."

The 1949 Phillies went 81-73 during Sawyer's first full season as manager. The 1950 club relied upon young players such as outfielders Richie Ashburn (23) and Del Ennis (25), shortstop Granny Hamner (23), and starting pitchers Robin Roberts (23) and Curt Simmons (21). Ashburn, Ennis, Hamner, and Roberts are all in the Phillies Baseball Wall of Fame.

The 1950 Phillies would end up having many parallels from a general perspective to the 1993 club. Both teams made unexpected runs to the World Series but came up shy of winning championships. The 1950 franchise was known primarily for its youth, while the 1993 team was comprised of seasoned veterans.

Sawyer had a 296-292 record during his first few years as manager. He struggled more during his second term as skipper, with a regular season record of 94-131. However, the 1950 club continues to be remembered fondly in Phillies history.