Changes began in the Phillies front office today when the Phillies relieved a long-term and high-ranking employee of his duties. Marti Wolever, a member of the Phillies staff since 1992, will not return to the Phillies in 2015. Wolever's primary role was overseeing the annual amateur draft.
The Phillies released a statement to the media today, including the Philadelphia Daily News:
The Phillies announced today that the contract of Marti Wolever, Assistant General Manager, Amateur Scouting, will not be renewed for 2015. The Phillies express appreciation for Marti’s many years of service to the organization.
The move is the first of perhaps several changes in the Phillies' operational staff. Interim President Pat Gillick promised changes this offseason.
Wolever spent his first nine years as national cross-checker and scouting coordinator before being promoted to director of scouting in 2001. In 2012, Wolever was given the title of assistant general manager, continuing to focus his attention on the draft. In a year when the Phillies saw their 2007 and 2008 first round draft picks exit the organization (Joe Savery and Anthony Hewitt), 2010 and 2011 picks experience setbacks (Larry Greene and Jesse Biddle), and 2012's suspended for substance abuse (Shane Watson), the Phillies have little to show for recent drafts.
