Schmidt loses first game as manager

CLEARWATER, Fla. -- Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt will have to wait at least another day for his first victory as a manager.

His Clearwater Threshers dropped their Class-A Florida State League opener 14-11 in 11 innings Thursday night to the Dunedin Blue Jays.

Schmidt's big-game experience as one of baseball's greatest third basemen for the Philadelphia Phillies helped him remain calm on a special night.

"Surprisingly, I was pretty comfortable throughout the ballgame," he said.

Then he thought for a moment and realized he might have been too laid back.

"I should have gone out and argued one play at first base late in the game, but I am so far away and my first base coach didn't argue the play," Schmidt said.

His inexperience as a manager became obvious in the sixth inning, which began with Clearwater leading 6-4. He made a pitching change and headed straight back to the dugout only to be stopped by the home plate umpire.

"The ump said I needed to tell the base ump when I make a change," Schmidt said. "I guess I know now."

Arriving about six hours before the game at Bright House Networks Field, Schmidt was asked if he had any trouble filling out his first lineup card.

"Absolutely not," he said, "It has been fun messing with it, all the names and where they are going to hit in the order."

In 2002 and 2003 spring training, Schmidt was a special hitting instructor for the Phillies, but has had only limited experience as a dugout chief.

"My last coaching experience was when I helped out with my son's private school team," he said.

He also was reminded that facilities in the minors aren't first class, although his office in the ballpark is far superior to his spot in spring training.

"My locker was right next to the toilet at the complex," Schmidt said. "I didn't want any special treatment, but it was the stinkiest one there."

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