Nov. 21 -- MACKANIN NAMED BENCH COACH

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Not to disrupt the Chase Utley comments below, but I wanted to pass this along: The Phillies have completed their coaching staff by hiring Pete Mackanin as their bench coach.

Mackanin, 57, has been an interim manager for the Pirates (26 games in 2005) and the Reds (80 games in 2007). In 2008, he was a pro scout for the Yankees. He also has been a coach with the Expos (1997-2000) and Pirates (2003-05). As a player, Mackanin appeared in 18 games for the Phillies in 1978 and '79.

So, Charlie Manuel's coaching staff now looks like this: Rich Dubee (pitching), Milt Thompson (hitting), Mackanin (bench), Davey Lopes (first base), Sam Perlozzo (third base), Mick Billmeyer (bullpen).

OK, everyone, you may now resume your Utley discussion. I'll weigh in soon with more about his impending hip surgery.