After anxiously waiting to hear who would fill the vacant manager position with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the reigning N.L. West Champions have finally found their man.
According to the Los Angeles Times, the Dodgers will hire former outfielder Dave Roberts who is expected to be introduced to the media later on today. This means that Dave Martinez will return to the Chicago Cubs after missing out on the opportunity.
Martinez interviewed for the position just a few weeks ago and appeared to be a favorite to land the job. The 51-year-old has been with Joe Maddon since 2008 when the decision to make him bench coach was made.
He stepped up in place of Maddon a few times throughout the 2015 campaign after the 61-year-old skipper whenever he was ordered to hit the showers early.
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During his coaching career, Martinez has interviewed for managerial jobs with the Cleveland Indians, Chicago White Sox, Washington Nationals and even the Chicago Cubs back in 2013. The Cubs decided to roll with Rick Renteria, who was a former bench coach with the San Diego Padres.
There’s no doubt that Martinez is an important piece to this puzzle considering the success he and Maddon have had together in the dugout throughout the years.
Having him back is a great sign, but the time when he interviews and lands a job as a big league manager is going to come. Same thing happened with Ryne Sandberg when he was hired by the Philadelphia Phillies.
Surely, he’ll receive some calls following the 2016 campaign.
Here’s more from around the league:
‘Chicago Cubs: Justin Grimm made the grade in 2015‘ – Cubbies Crib
‘Chicago Cubs’ starting pitching debate‘ – Cubbies Crib
‘Cubs should get Jake Arrieta’s long-term deal done ASAP‘ – Cubbies Crib