July 14 (Reuters) - St Louis fired manager Mike Matheny on Saturday after the slumping Cardinals fell 8-2 to the Cincinnati Reds to register a 10th loss in 15 games as their overall record dropped to 47-46.
The Cardinals, who are seven games behind the National League Central division-leading Chicago Cubs, also parted ways with hitting coach John Mabry and assistant hitting coach Bill Mueller.
Bench coach Mike Shildt will serve as interim manager until the club announces the outgoing staff's replacements on Sunday.
"These decisions are never easy, but we felt that a change in leadership was necessary as the team prepares to enter into the second half of the season," President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak said in a statement.
"I would like to thank Mike for his exceptional commitment and devotion to the Cardinals organisation, including many fond memories of our years working together."
Matheny, 47, was in his seventh season as manager of the Cardinals, whom he led to four straight post-seasons from 2012, including the World Series in 2013, but the team has failed to make the playoffs since.
Along with the poor record, St Louis has experienced plenty of internal issues this year with Mozeliak recently questioning the work ethic of Cardinals outfielder Dexter Fowler.
The outgoing manager had also indicated that he asked pitcher Bud Norris to police the clubhouse for him and when rookie Jordan Hicks said he had felt badgered by the reliever, Metheny said the game of baseball has gotten "softer". (Writing by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles; Editing by John O'Brien)