Mackanin has never been a full-time big-league manager, but perhaps the moment has finally arrived.
The Phillies lost 14 of the first 17 games Mackanin managed, but they are 24-20 since, and scouts have been impressed with the energy the Phillies have shown on the field.
Mackanin is one of four managers who took over a team in mid-season this year.
Craig Counsell's status was never in question. He was given a three-year contract when he took over for Ron Roenicke as manager of the Brewers, a team Counsell grew up around. His father worked on the business side with the Brewers from 1979-87.