2063.10 UnTallented

[Trebro]

"Did you fire Bill Inkster today?"

GM Rob McMonigal stared at the text on his phone. It was from Dave Tallent, the manager at Indianapolis. It was unusually forward, but Tallent wasn't exactly known for his level head. It was one of the things that gave McMonigal pause about promoting him someday.

And that someday wasn't going to be now. After thinking about things, McMonigal felt that Inkster was still the best man for the job. It of course didn't hurt that Inkster still had two years on his deal and Bo Jordan was fretting every day about money.

But the mean reason was that he'd been given some really bad teams to manage and one of those years, McMonigal wasn't even here. (McMonigal shuddered, recalling his out of body experience, a fading but still very real memory.) Bill deserved a chance to see what he could do with better players.

Players that are coming from the good work Tallent and his team were doing in Indy.

"No. Not happening." McMonigal texted back.

"Call me."

McMonigal sighed and looked for a nearby park bench. He pushed the call button and Tallent picked up on the first ring.

"What do you mean he's still the manager? Haven't I proven myself enough?" The manager hadn't even bothered with a "hello."

"What are you talking about?" McMonigal asked, genuinely perplexed.

"This is my sixth playoff appearance in nine seasons. I've won 80 or more games 7 times. I've only had a losing season once, and that was my first with you. I'm a proven winner and I want the Nine's manager job."

"It's not available, Dave. Not yet. Now if we have another bad season, we can talk about moving you up in 2064. Hell, Bill might just retire after this season anyway. I'm not just going to let him go. He's earned his chance to prove what he can do."

"And so have I."

McMonigal paused. "Is this about money? We can increase your salary.'

"No, it's about prestige. I'm 50, McMonigal. It's time for me to get into the BBA, where I belong. There's only so many chances. I'm ready for mine now."

"Then it will have to be elsewhere, but all you have to do is wait."

"Okay, then, I quit."

The line went dead.

"Well, great," said McMonigal to no one in particular. "I hope this isn't a sign of further trouble along the organization lines."

He got up from the bench and resumed his walk. It was a nice day despite a slight November chill. McMonigal hoped it would continue. If this was any indication, he might have a lot of walks to take.

[Jwalk100]

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