The Best Major League Baseball Manager Decision of All Time: A Game-Changing Substitution

Mayo Smith, former manager of the Detroit Tigers, made one of the most strategic and influential decisions in the history of Major League Baseball. This decision, which occurred during the 1968 World Series, had far-reaching effects on the game and is often cited as one of the greatest coaching decisions ever made.

The Decision

The decision in question came during the 1968 World Series, which was the final series of the season before the adoption of the postseason playoffs. On the team roster, Mayo Smith played Mickey Stanley at shortstop, allowing him to keep his valuable outfielders, including Al Kaline, Jim Northrup, and Willie Horton, in the lineup every day. This move was particularly significant because Stanley, while capable, was also a notoriously poor hitter, and giving him the shortstop position meant that Ray Oyler was benched.

A New Position for Stanley

This was a departure from regular season practices, where Smith could afford to rest one outfielder or first baseman even for a single game. The Series was played in an era when the National and American League champions met directly, without the need for playoffs, meaning every player had to be at their physical best. Despite his inexperience at shortstop, Stanley managed to fill the role for the last five games of the regular season, showcasing remarkable adaptability.

Pivotal Moments and Performance

Stanley's transition to the unfamiliar position showcased his resilience and ability to adapt quickly. During the series, he made two errors, but both had minimal impact on the game's outcome. The most memorable moment came when the first ball in the series was hit by Lou Brock. Stanley managed to throw Brock out at first, signaling the beginning of a defensive nightmare for the opposing team and lifting a significant burden off the manager's shoulders.

Recognition and Impact

The significance of this decision was not lost on the media. In 1999, ESPN named it as one of the all-time greatest coaching decisions in its 'End of the Century' list. This honor underscores the far-reaching impact of the move, not just on the game during that series, but on future managers and their decision-making processes.

Evaluating the Impact

Stanley's performance in the World Series was not only crucial in maintaining the lineup's strength but also highlighted the importance of strategic substitutions in high-stakes games. The skill set of the outfielders and first baseman, as well as their familiarity with their positions, was critical to the Detroit Tigers' eventual victory. It is remarkable to consider how a change of a single position could shift the balance of an entire series.

Conclusion

The decision by Mayo Smith to make Mickey Stanley a shortstop during the 1968 World Series stands out as one of the most prescient and impactful choices in the history of Major League Baseball. It exemplifies the testament to a manager's adaptability, foresight, and the importance of slotting players into the best positions for both immediate and long-term success. This move has since been recognized as a significant turning point, affirming that sometimes, the best decision is the one that goes against convention and challenges the status quo.