Phillies fire pitching coach Rich Dubee

The Phillies announced Monday morning that they have dismissed pitching coach Rich Dubee after nine seasons with the team.

Said Phillies GM Ruben Amaro in a statement, "Rich was a big part of a wonderful era here and in his nine years he served our organization very well. We believe it is time for change as we move forward. We thank Rich for his professionalism and contribution to the Phillies."

The last survivor of the Phillies' coaching purge that came just after the 2012 season, Dubee spent 13 years with the team, nine in his positon as pitching coach. Earlier this year, he received ardent support from Roy Halladay when criticism of Dubee's style and effectiveness resurfaced from former Phillies closer Mitch Williams.

Under Charlie Manuel, he served as the pitching dignitary, with most inquiries about the rotation or bullpen being channeled from the former manager to Dubee, his pitching coach and right-hand man. Manuel even went so far as to say that Dubee would be a good choice for a managerial opening. His at times coarse demeanor when dealing with hurlers led to schisms with Kyle Kendrick on occasion, and was considered a counterweight to Manuel's down-home folkiness and laid back approach.

As a player, Dubee spent six years in the Kansas City Royals' farm system, posting a 45-49 record and 4.07 ERA.

We'll have more details shortly.