We say it every year, but it sure seems like one of these days, Joe Maddon’s long-time lieutenant, Dave Martinez, will get a shot in the manager’s seat (and not just when Maddon takes an early bow because of a ridiculous call).
Martinez, the Cubs’ bench coach, has been interviewed a number of times over the years for managerial vacancies, including by the Cubs before they hired Rick Renteria to replace Dale Sveum, and by the Tigers just in the last couple weeks. His is a respected baseball mind, and his experience working under Maddon must be an incredible draw.
The latest team to express interest? The Washington Nationals:
The Nationals have reached out to Cubs bench coach Dave Martinez for their managerial opening and he will interview, per source.
— Jorge Castillo (@jorgecastillo) October 23, 2017
The Nationals, of course, just parted ways with Dusty Baker after two very successful regular seasons that ended in frustrating fashion in the NLDS. Baker’s in-game decision-making undoubtedly played some part in those losses, but it’s no lock that another manager would have fared different, or even would have led the team to the postseason both years either. It was kind of a tough ending for Baker (which is not necessarily to say that I’m shedding any tears for him).
We’ll see if Martinez finally gets his crack, and, if so, how the Cubs proceed on their own staff.
Meanwhile, they’ll reportedly have former Rays pitching coach Jim Hickey in today to interview for that vacancy with the Cubs.