ST. LOUIS • Seeking what he referred to multiple times as a "fresh start" and a "new start," Cardinals chairman Bill DeWitt Jr. said the firing of manager Mike Matheny late Saturday night was a response to what officials saw as a team not living up to expectations, or even backsliding.
"Unfortunately our club has not played up to its capabilities, and it was time for a fresh voice and some new leardership," DeWitt said. "In some places a winning record, or even .500, is even acceptable. Not with this city, not with this franchise, not with its history, and not with the fans.