Don Mattingly's time with the Toronto Blue Jays is up. The former New York Yankees captain who served as bench coach to John Schneider for three years was as close as he ever was to a World Series ring, watching a lead with two outs left dissolve right in front of his eyes at the hands of a Jeff Hoffman 9th inning meltdown.

Don’t hold your breath. There are several reasons why the Yankees will likely pass. The first would be GM Brian Cashman’s loyalty to Boone. Putting Mattingly in the dugout would instantly turn him into a successor-in-waiting. Donnie Baseball would never be party to such palace intrigue, but like it or not, Boone would become an instant lame duck.

After finally making the World Series with the Toronto Blue Jays, Don Mattingly has reportedly decided not to return to the team next season.

The Phillies still need a bench coach. Don Mattingly is available. He just left his job as the Blue Jays’ bench coach. Mattingly, 64, would make sense for the Phillies, who last month moved Mike Calitri into a new role as Major League field coordinator.

It's not a major signing, but it is indeed pairing of team and free agent, which means the offseason has arrived in earnest. The Orioles have reached an agreement with veteran outfielder Leody Taveras on a contract, reports MLB.com.

The results of the vote — needing 75 percent from the ballots cast by a group that will be announced later this fall — will be revealed on Dec. 7.