Don Wakamatsu Tenure

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Wakamatsu's tenure began with high expectations after a busy offseason that included the return of Ken Griffey Jr. and a 12-player, 3-team trade. However, the team finished the 2010 season with the worst record in the American League, leading to his dismissal.

In Their Own Story

The 2009 season began with high hopes under the new management structure, but the results did not match the expectations set by the roster acquisitions. After two seasons leading the club, the franchise made a change on October 9, firing Wakamatsu following a disappointing campaign. He was succeeded by Scott Servais on October 23. The transition marked the end of an era that began with the ambitious hiring in November 2008 and the subsequent attempts to reshape the team's culture through trades and free-agent signings.

Reader's Guide

Don Wakamatsu managed the Mariners for parts of two seasons (2009–2010). His hiring was part of a broader front-office overhaul that included the appointment of general manager Jack Zduriencik in October 2008.

Did You Know?

• Wakamatsu was named manager on November 18, 2008.
• He was fired on August 9, 2010, after the team posted the worst record in the American League that season.
• His interim replacement was Daren Brown, manager of the Triple-A Tacoma Rainiers.