Diamondbacks sack manager Melvin

Baseball's Arizona Diamondbacks sacked manager Bob Melvin, hoping a new hand at the helm can turn around a disappointing season for the young team.

"This is a difficult decision, but I feel that our organization needs to move forward with a new voice," general manager Josh Byrnes said in a statement.

Hitting coach Rick Schu was also sent packing, and pitching coach Bryan Price resigned.

The club said Melvin's replacement will be announced on Friday at a press conference prior to their home game against Washington.

Arizona went into Thursday 8 1/2 games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League West division.

Melvin, 47, had guided the Diamondbacks to the NL West title two years ago and earned 2007 NL Manager of the Year honors.

"I am grateful for all the success and memories associated with Bob," Byrnes said. "Bob has done great things for this organization. Having worked with him for nearly four years, I have a great deal of respect for his character and skills."

But the 47-year-old Melvin, who had one year left on his contract, has been unable to realize the potential of the young team.

Arizona entered Thursday with a .225 batting average, the worst in baseball.

Team president Derrick Hall told local broadcast outlet KTAR on Thursday that the team's play was "unacceptable."