We are in the middle of the 2021 MLB Playoffs and a few teams are still left playing for a ring. While the rest of the league has their eyes on the 2022 season. Managerial positions are open for several teams so let’s take a look.
Teams Looking for a Manager
New York Mets
The Mets moved on from Luis Rojas after two years at the helm, having an underwhelming record of 103-119. New York started off red hot to start the year leading the NL East with a solid 47-40 record. They decided to go for it this year with the acquisition of Javier Baez at the All-Star break. But adversity struck when Baez and Francisco Lindor protested the fans for booing them. Not to mention intern General Manager Zack Scott was arrested in September on DWI charges. Not an ideal situation for any manager with all the hardship happening in this organization. But Mets ownership decided it was best for Rojas not to be extended.
They will be going in a different direction and will be interesting if they decide to go back to Carlos Beltran, who is rumored to be a candidate. This hire is crucial for Steve Cohen as a culture shift is needed for a reeling franchise.
St. Louis Cardinals
Mike Shildt was let go following a three-year stint with the Cards including a 2019 NL Manager of the year award. Shildt steered them to the playoffs in his three full years as skipper. Lots of speculation came following the firing as it was days after the loss in the Wild Card round to the Dodgers. It was a questionable decision considering the success he has had with the organization. If they feel they can move on from Shildt, the ownership and front office must feel they have someone better on their radar. He will most definitely get looks at other managerial jobs this offseason as he has already interviewed with the Padres.
Hiring in house may be more likely rather than trying to establish a new culture. Does this open the door for Yadier Molina? It is possible.
San Diego Padres
A disappointing season for the Padres ended with the firing of Jayce Tingler. The Padres into the year a near lock for the postseason with one of the most talented rosters in the sport. They started off hot but like the Mets, they tailed off mightily in the second half of the year. They finished with a 79-83 record and possibly were the most disappointing team this season. Pitching coach Larry Rothschild was fired mid-season and the staff immediately` picked it up after but wasn’t enough to salvage the tailspin.
Whether or not Tingler was the problem, a change was needed as they look to rebound and make a run next season. A skipper that can be respected and win over the players is a must. Ron Washington is a name to watch for the job. The former Texas Rangers manager and current Atlanta Braves third-base coach is a likely candidate.
