Phils, Manuel make progress in contract talks

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Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Posted: 1:57 p.m.
By Jim SalisburyCSNPhilly.com

CLEARWATER, Fla.After weeks of slow-moving talks, the Phillies and Charlie Manuel have made some progress in their negotiations regarding a contract extension for the sixth-year manager.

Pat Rooney, who represents Manuel, met with general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. for an hour at Bright House Field on Tuesday.

It was productive, Rooney told CSNPhilly.com after the session. Were getting closer. There was some give and take. Both sides made some movement, but were still a little ways away. They know our position so well keep working on it.

Rooney was asked if he was optimistic about reaching a deal soon.

Hopeful, he said. We hope to have something by opening day.

Manuel, 67, is in the final year of his contract and will make 2.4 million this season. He is seeking a two-year extension. The two sides have agreed on the length of the extension but money is an issue.

Rooney has previously said Manuel deserves to be paid as one of the top five managers in baseball. That would mean a salary in the neighborhood of 4 million per season.

Manuel led the Phillies to a World Series title in 2008 and a National League title in 2009. He has presided over 25 postseason wins the last four seasons, the most of any manager in the game since 2005.Manuel would not take questions on the matter."Ruben and Pat are working toward a resolution," he said through a club spokesman.
E-mail Jim Salisbury at jsalisbury@comcastsportsnet.com
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