Charlie Manuel gets much deserved extension

The Phillies made their first major, and possibly most important, move of the offseason today when they extended manager Charlie Manuel's contract for another season. Manuel's contract was set to expire following the 2010 season so the Phillies went ahead and gave him a one-year extension through 2011.

What a difference a championship makes. A year ago, most Phillies fans wanted to run Manuel out of town. Now, with a World Series title under his (rather large) belt, Manuel won't ever have to buy another drink in this town. While I question how much longer the 64 year-old will want to manage, the Phillies will be smart to extend him a year at a time past the current season so he doesn't become a lame-duck manager.

Congrats Charlie Manuel, you deserve all the praise you are getting after all the crap you had to put up with over the years. May your gut continue to serve you well.