Sad news, folks.

Charlie Manuel's mother, June Manuel, died today at Roanoke Memorial Hospital after a brief illness. She was 87.

Manuel received the call around noon today after he finished a meeting with his coaches in the clubhouse. His mother had to be hospitalized earlier this week. Manuel is at the ballpark, and will manage Game 2 of the National League Championship Series this afternoon against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Citizens Bank Park. It is unclear if Manuel will  fly on the team charter to Los Angeles after today's game. The Phillies have the day off tomorrow.

June Manuel still lived in Buena Vista, Va., where Manuel grew up. She is survived by 10 children.

Manuel was very close to his mother, talking to her several times a week. In fact, she often called her son after games -- sometimes to tell him what he did wrong. Manuel recently told a story in the manager's office at Dolphin Stadium about the time he became manager of the Cleveland Indians before the 2000 season. A local TV station apparently visited Buena Vista and interviewed his mother. The reporter asked what she thought about her son becoming manager of the Indians.

"That's all well and fine," she said. "But somebody's got to take this trash out."

Classic.

Manuel was in his usual spot behind the batting cage before the game. Players and coaches from both sides, including Dodgers manager Joe Torre, expressed their condolences.

Funeral arrangments are pending. I will provide details as soon as I get them.