NewsLa Russa named NL All-Star coach
Manager joins Manuel's staff along with Torre
By Matthew Leach / MLB.com
06/17/09 8:55 PM ET
ST. LOUIS -- Tony La Russa didn't hesitate when he was asked to serve on Charlie Manuel's coaching staff for the 2009 All-Star Game, which will take place at Busch Stadium. But he also didn't hesitate when asked if coaching in the Midsummer Classic is better than managing. |
"No," he said quickly. "No. No. You enjoy it better when you manage it."
The notion that coaching might allow him to take in the whole experience a little bit more? That holds no water with La Russa, who will be an All-Star coach for the fourth time. He'd much rather be the skipper -- because that means that you managed the pennant-winners the year before.
Either way, though, La Russa is delighted to be a part of the game. In some years, he's declined the opportunity to coach, preferring to take the time at home in California with his family. With the game in St. Louis, though, it's a totally different equation.
"I love the All-Star experience," he said. "Being in St. Louis is even better. ... The first couple times, '84 and '87, I was thrilled. I had never been in one as a manager. Then over the years it was an opportunity to go home. But Chicago, I did the White Sox one because I had a lot of home cooking there, and now it's here."
Manuel, the Phillies' manager, is well-regarded among his peers, and La Russa is looking forward to working with him. Not to mention working with Dodgers manager Joe Torre, a former Cardinals skipper who will be the other coach on the staff.
"I think it's a treat for both of us," La Russa said. "And Charlie's a long-time, real-time baseball man. Neat to be around."
La Russa even said he'd turn over his office to Manuel, and take up residence in the coaches' locker while the festivities are in town.
"It's Charlie's," he said.
Matthew Leach is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
