Find a coach from among ‘baseball guys’
The Cubs are no better off today than the day Sweet Lou handed the keys to Mike Quade in 2010. Arguably much worse. But seriously, the Padres’ bench coach? Rick Renteria is a top shelf “baseball guy.” But he’s the Padres’ bench coach. The Padres!
It is obvious that the Holy Trinity of Ricketts, Epstein and Hoyer are not “baseball guys.” My guess is they are perceived by MLB insiders as outsiders. Did not play ball beyond high school and playing video games when today’s patriarch’s were riding buses, chewing tobacco and grinding out 162 games a year. They have paid no dues and have no contacts at the Major League level.
Regarding the managerial job, they should seek advice from Bobby Cox, Nolan Ryan, Tony LaRussa, Frank Robinson and the list goes on forever. Unfortunately if you are not a member, you are not welcome in the club.
At the very least go for the best people and coaches from teams that win. The Padres is the first place to look for the worst, right? They are not baseball guys. Girardi didn’t consider the job and Lou walked away and almost immediately accepted a job with the Giants. His retirement plan was as much about getting out of Wrigleyville as anything he may have stated publicly. If I only knew then what is so obvious today.
Brian DeValk
Palatine