REPORT: Girardi wants to formally explore Cubs’ offer

Apr 8, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs president of baseball operations Theo Epstein meets with the press prior to a game between the Chicago Cubs and the Milwaukee Brewers at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports

According to Chicago Cubs beat writer Gordon Wittenmeyer of the Chicago Sun-Times, Yankees manager Joe Girardi wants to “formally explore” the managerial vacancy in Chicago and remains torn over what decision to make concerning a recent Yankees’ contract offer.

"He wants to formally explore the Cubs’ opening after weeks of back-channel feelings, according to sources. But industry sources familiar with the negotiations say the Yankees have made it clear their offer might nit remain in play if he chooses to talk to other teams first."

As of early Tuesday morning, Girardi had still not decided whether or not to accept New York’s offer that is reported to be worth $12 to $15 million over the span of three years. His current deal, worth $9 million expires at the end of the month. New York has chosen to not allow Girardi to speak with other clubs while contemplating their recent offer.

Furthermore, one Cubs source, according to Wittenmeyer, says the team expects to learn by Tuesday morning whether or not he will accept the Yankees’ offer or seek negotiations with Chicago. As reported earlier, many within the organization have considered Girardi a “long-shot” from the beginning.

Money won’t be a factor, at least not from the Cubs’ perspective. Several reports in recent days show the team is willing to match whatever offer New York makes, and even expand upon it if need be.

Should Girardi  choose to remain with New York, Cubs officials have already begun meeting with other potential managerial candidates, including A.J. Hinch and Manny Acta. Both have managerial experience at the big league level, but have struggled to find success during their respective tenures.

San Diego Padres bench coach Rick Renteria, who was with the club for the two seasons Hoyer was the team’s general manager, is also highly regarded by the Cubs’ front office, according to Wittenmeyer.

Those who don’t receive the managerial job could also be candidates for vacancies on the coaching staff. The team has reported that the future of the coaching staff will be determined after a manager is hired to replace Dale Sveum, who was dismissed by the organization last Monday.