Charlie Manuel is someone who Jim Leyland has known since his minor league playing days. Once both became big-league managers, they became closer still.

So the Tigers’ skipper was saddened by the news Friday that the Phillies had fired Manuel — who had been the longest-tenured manager in Major League Baseball — after eight years in Philadelphia. Leyland is now the third-longest tenured manager, behind the Angels’ Mike Scioscia and Minnesota’s Ron Gardenhire.

“Well, you know, we’re no different than newscasters or writers, or anything else. Nobody likes to see one of their peers get fired. I didn’t know that. I mean, this comes as a surprise to me. But you’re right, I’m very close to Charlie, and think the world of him. He’s obviously done a great job over there,” Leyland said.

“And it’s just one of those things, a part of our business. It’s too bad, but it’s something that happens. We’re coaches — in our case managers, and we know what that’s all about. I’m sorry for Charlie, but nothing surprises you when it comes to our business.”

Leyland said he would probably eventually reach out to Manuel to express his sympathy.

“Yeah, I’m sure there will be a moment I’ll talk to him. Gene (Lamont) works with him in spring training and everything,” Leyland said. “I don’t know if today would be the day to call him ...I’m sure it’s a hectic time for him right now. Probably let the dust settle before we do anything.”