The Nationals are looking for a manager, perhaps a new manager, perhaps one they are using now, maybe someone else’s old manager. Right now, there are 4 people being mentioned as potential candidate, although the list is likely longer. So, a quick rundown of the guys named so far. Here are your choices, in alphabetical order:
Don Mattingly – Current hitting coach of the LA Dodgers
Pros: Tutelage under Joe Torre. Yankees hitting coach 2003-2006, Yankees bench coach in 2007. Arguably the best player in baseball from 1983-1985. Mustaches.
Cons: No managerial experience other than when Torre was tossed out of games in 2007. May manage bullpens just like Torre.
Bob Melvin – Currently unemployed
Pros: 2007 NL Manager of the Year. 7 years experience, including an NLCS appearance. Won 90 or more games twice. Likes to use many different lineups.
Cons: Losing record in his 7 years. Fired this year after his ace pitcher got hurt and his very young team didn’t hit. Likes to use many different lineups.
Jim Riggleman – Current interim manager of the hard-luck Nationals
Pros
: 10 years of experience. Sound approach to fundamentals. Nats improved under his watch. Familiarity with the team, and currently has the interim job.
Cons: Poor history with young starting pitchers and injuries (Kerry Wood being the most glaring example). Hired by Jim Bowden. Losing record in his 10 years. Nats didn’t improve by much, still went on several long losing streaks.
Bobby Valentine – Current ESPN Analyst
Pros: 15 years of experience with a winning record. Won NL pennant in 2000, took Mets to NLCS in 1999. Won 2005 Japan Series. Extremely dynamic personality, will draw interest to the team. Invented the wrap. Didn’t get along with Steve Phillips. Fake mustaches.
Cons: Works at ESPN, therefore may have infidelity issues. Probably the most expensive choice. Insane.
The question is put to you then, who should it be?