"I don't want my contract to be any kind of distraction to our team or our organization," he said. "I have a contract that runs through the season and I don't think I should let my contract interfere with what we do. My number one priority . . . is to try to win the World Series and that's what we're here for. That will always be my first priority. At the same time, everybody would like to have a contract.
"I know as I sit here I could manage at least three more years. From there on out, I think it would be a situation where I could sit down with my general manager [Ruben Amaro Jr.] and [Pat] Gillick and they could look me in the eye and tell me if they think I'm getting too old or I don't have the energy or I don't have a life.
"At the same time . . . I think I am a Phillie."
That comment triggered a loud ovation from the fans in attendance at Manuel's interview, which was staged at a diner in Cherry Hill.
"I love living in Philly and I love the fans," Manuel added, leading to more appreciation from the crowd. "I want to go out as a Phillie."
Manuel also talked about a number of issues, including shortstop Jimmy Rollins.
"I have always looked at Jimmy as a leadoff guy," Manuel said. "I think Jimmy is a very intelligent player. I'm not saying [Shane] Victorino won't lead off for us. He would be our next option."
Manuel was less forthcoming about who will replace Jayson Werth as the fifth hitter in the lineup, but he did not discount the idea that Rollins could hit there.
"First of all, I think Jimmy could hit first, second, third, fifth, sixth, or even fourth for a couple of days," Manuel said. "Listen, I take a lot of pride in our hitting and we're going to find somebody to hit fifth. We have some good candidates. I guarantee you we're going to get some production from that spot."
