Texas Rangers Fire Manager Jeff Banister

Ahead of what will be the team’s first consecutive losing seasons in 10 years, the Texas Rangers announced today that they have parted ways with manager Jeff Banister. Bench coach Don Wakamatsu will take over as interim manager for the rest of the season.

“I informed Jeff Banister of our decision earlier today,” President of Baseball Operations and General Manager Jon Daniels said in a statement. “I want to thank Jeff for his dedication and efforts with the Texas Rangers over the last four years. This organization is very appreciative of what he has contributed to the club on the field and in the community.

“This was not an easy decision and comes after a long period of evaluation. However, we feel that a change in the leadership of our Major League club is necessary as we move forward. Once this conclusion was reached, I felt it was appropriate to make the move now. On behalf of the entire organization, I wish Jeff and his family the best.”

Banister was hired to replace Ron Washington in 2014. He had an overall record of 325-313 during his stint with the Rangers. The team won the AL West in each of his first two seasons, but was bounced from the playoffs by the Toronto Blue Jays in the AL Division Series on both occasions.

The Rangers have a 64-88 record going into tonight’s game against the Seattle Mariners. They finished with a record of 78-84 last year.