There might be two guys interested in the job. Former Cincinnati Reds skipper Dusty Baker and former Seattle Mariners manager Eric Wedge.
Wedge stated that he would love the opportunity to manage the Tigers. Baker said that he would be flattered to manage the Tigers.
“If the Tigers have interest in me, I would love the opportunity,” Wedge said today.
“I’ve always respected Dave Dombrowski and what Dave has accomplished,” Baker said. “I have the ultimate respect and friendship for Jim Leyland. I’d be flattered and honored to be given such an opportunity.”
Wedge resigned from his post in Seattle due to philosophical differences with the front office. Wedge wanted a win now approach while the front office felt the team should build with young players. Baker was fired from the Reds for his team practically collapsing late in the season and for sticking up for a coach the team wanted to fire.
The Tigers would also like a manager that is driven to win now. The team is clearly in a win now mode and is looking to win it's first World Series since 1984. The Tigers came up short in 2006 and 2012.
I don't know if Baker or Wedge are viewed as bonafide candidates, but I'm sure their names will be thrown in the mix.
If I had my choice I'd pick Wedge since Baker has a bad track record with overworking pitchers (Kerry Wood, Mark Prior).
This is the problem with fans wanting Leyland gone. No one seems to be thrilled with the possible list of candidates and can't name anyone to take over the reins of a possible championship team.
