Don Wakamatsu Tenure

Don Wakamatsu managed the Mariners from 2009 to mid-2010, a tenure marked by high hopes and a disappointing finish.

Don Wakamatsu was named manager of the Seattle Mariners on November 18, 2008, after serving as the Oakland Athletics bench coach. He was fired on August 9, 2010, along with several coaches, and replaced on an interim basis by Daren Brown, the manager of the Triple-A affiliate Tacoma Rainiers.

Quick Facts

Role: Manager
Affiliation: Seattle Mariners (MLB)
Status: Former Manager
Predecessor: Scott Servais (Interim)
Successor: Scott Servais

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.

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.