MLB Rumors: Marlins Down To Two Finalists To Be Next Manager
This decision comes after parting ways with Skip Schumaker, who led the team to the postseason in 2023 but finished with a disappointing 62-100 record in 2024.
“After several constructive conversations, we have mutually agreed to part ways, and Skip will not be returning to manage the club next year,” Marlins owner Bruce Sherman stated in September.
The Marlins have since conducted a thorough search, interviewing over 10 candidates, including Los Angeles Dodgers first base coach Clayton McCullough and former bench coach Luis Urueta, before settling on Albernaz and Venable as the frontrunners.
It's Craig Albernaz vs. Will Venable for the Marlins managerial job, per @CraigMish.
— Fish On First (@FishOnFirst) October 28, 2024
Who's your pick? pic.twitter.com/6eRPS2ZXcj
Albernaz, 41, has emerged as a strong candidate due to his extensive coaching background and player development experience, having won two championships in the Rays’ minor league system and serving as the Guardians' bench coach in 2024.
He also has a prior working relationship with Marlins president of baseball operations Peter Bendix from their time in Tampa Bay, which could make him a natural fit for Miami's vision.
Venable, also 41, brings a diverse coaching resume after a nine-year playing career, having held roles with the Chicago Cubs, Boston Red Sox, and most recently as Bruce Bochy’s associate manager with the Texas Rangers.
Venable was described as having "impressed the Marlins" during his initial Zoom interview, according to MLB insider Jon Heyman.
BREAKING - Rangers associate manager Will Venable has been named one of two finalists for the Manager position with the Miami Marlins
— Kane McCutchen (@Kane_McCutchen6) October 28, 2024
Guardians bench coach Craig Albernaz is the other finalist #StraightUpTX pic.twitter.com/xgkLD3Prm9
Both finalists are set for in-person interviews this week with Sherman and Bendix, as Miami looks to finalize its decision.
Photo Credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn Images
Post a Comment