A month after former Mariners manager Dan Wilson announced his decision to walk away from the team, the team may be approaching two potential finalists for his job.
Former Astros manager Joe Espada and current Cubs director of player development Jason Kanzler will visit T-Mobile Park this week, according to multiple sources, according to MLB.com.
Advertising
Espada went 256-229 during his tenure as the Astros’ manager and served as the Astros’ bench coach for six years. The Mariners received permission to interview Espada earlier this month.
The chancellor is a dark horse candidate. Kanzler has never managed a team, but the former Minnesota Twins shortstop helped the Cubs develop their farm system over three seasons.
MLB.com notes that the Mariners are particularly interested in Kanzler because of his track record, ability to develop players and communication skills.
According to MLB.com, this is the third round of interviews for both candidates, and the two will spend time meeting with several members of the organization during their respective interviews.
Advertising
As for other candidates in the running, MLB.com says Rocco Baldelli, Walker McKinven, Brandon Hyde, Torey Lovullo and Stephen Vogt have all come up at some point, according to sources. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, Baldelli was also invited to interview in person but withdrew his name.