Martinez had never been a manager at any level when Rizzo hired him to replace Dusty Baker before the 2018 season. The Nationals went 82-80 in Martinez’s first season and got off to a 19-31 start the following year, leading to some calls for him to be replaced.

Manager Dave Martinez and general manager Mike Rizzo were fired by the Washington Nationals on Sunday in moves that were surprising for their timing, even if the club is

The Washington Nationals part ways with Mike Rizzo and Dave Martinez after a sweep by the Red Sox, citing the need for a fresh approach amid a challenging season.