Seattle Mariners skipper Lloyd McClendon finished fourth in American League Manager of the Year voting, the MLB announced Tuesday, losing out on the prestigious award to Buck Showalter of the Baltimore Orioles.
McClendon, 55, took over last offseason and all but transformed the Mariners ballclub. Armed with new weapons in such stars as Robinson Cano and Fernando Rodney, McClendon took Seattle from a 71-91 record in 2013 to 87-75 this past season.
What’s more, the M’s found themselves in postseason contention all the way up until Game 162. Seattle missed the playoffs by one game, failing to take full advantage of the Oakland Athletics’ incredible slide in the second half of the season.
With his calm demeanor, McClendon settled down overeager players. With his quiet confidence, he emboldened young guys. With his steady leadership, he supported Seattle’s veterans and improved the clubhouse atmosphere.
In voting for A.L. Manager of the Year, conducted by a panel of 30 sportswriters from the Baseball Writers’ Association of America, McClendon received one first-place vote, five second-place votes and nine third-place votes. The BBWAA’s two voting representatives from Seattle — Jerry Brewer of The Seattle Times and Jim Caple of ESPN — each voted for Showalter to win and McClendon to place second.
McClendon finished behind winner Showalter (Orioles), runner-up Mike Scioscia (Angels) and Ned Yost (Royals).
