Donnie Baseball Steps Down

Citing family reasons, Don Mattingly stepped down as the LA Dodgers hitting instructor earlier this evening. Donnie Baseball will remain on the Dodgers' payroll as a special assignment coach. Mike Easler has been named as the new hitting coach.

Mattingly released the following statement through the team:

"I'm very grateful that the Dodgers have allowed me to take care of these family matters and I hope that everyone can respect our privacy during this time," Mattingly said in a statement issued by the team. "I truly appreciate the support of all Dodger fans since joining the organization and I look forward to helping the team win in 2008 and beyond."

We wish Donnie and his family all of the best! We were hoping perhaps he saw himself in a Dodgers uniform and thought better of it.