[Quality88]

PHILADELPHIA -- Ruben Amaro Jr. isn't ready to talk about possibly replacing Pat Gillick as Phillies general manager after the World Series.


But it sounds like that's exactly what's about to happen.


According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, several team insiders have said Philadelphia's assistant GM is expected to get the job, a move team president David Montgomery could announce in 24 to 48 hours following the World Series' conclusion or after Gillick's contract expires.


"What I can say is that we're pretty much focused on winning the World Series and trying to do what we can to bring home a championship to Philadelphia," Amaro said before Game 5 against Tampa Bay on Monday. "As far as the GM situation is concerned, that's a decision that's not mine to make. I think most people in the organization are thinking on what their job is today."


The 71-year-old Gillick said last year he wants to retire after this season. Gillick has a home in Seattle and his wife lives there throughout the year.


Amaro, in his 10th season as assistant GM, has long been considered the front-runner to replace Gillick. Mike Arbuckle, an assistant GM since Oct. 2001, also would have to be considered.


Amaro joined the Phillies immediately after his playing career ended in 1998. He worked under former GM Ed Wade for seven seasons and the last three with Gillick.


Arbuckle was promoted to his current position after seven seasons as the team's director of scouting.

Whoever gets the job has big shoes to fill. Gillick turned an underachieving team into a winner. He's also taken four different teams to the league championship series.

ESPN - Report: Ruben Amaro Jr. to replace Pat Gillick as Philadelphia Phillies GM