THE SIDELINES : Phillies Extend Managers’ Pacts

Philadelphia Phillies Manager Nick Leyva and General Manager Lee Thomas have received contract extensions through the 1992 seasons.

The team did not disclose financial details of either contract, but The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that Leyva’s was worth $500,000.

Phillies President Bill Giles said he was extremely pleased with Thomas, who initiated a wholesale reorganization of the franchise after coming to Philadelphia in June, 1988.

Thomas took over a last-place team that won 65 games in 1988 and 67 last year. Through trades, free agent signings and development of a few players from a very thin farm system, the Phillies are playing .500 baseball this season and are only nine games out of first in the NL East.

“I’m excited because I know that soon this club is going to be a very good club,” Leyva said.