With George Steinbrenner close to firing Joe Torre, here are a list of candidates who could succeed Torre and the odds of each being named:
DON MATTINGLY (3-1): The Boss has wanted “Donnie Baseball” to manage his club for a while. Steinbrenner believes with a veteran bench coach Mattingly can succeed. Drawback: Has never managed a team at any level and has been a bench coach for one season.
JOE GIRARDI (6-1): Has one year of experience managing the Marlins in 2006, when he was NL Manager of the Year. Played for the Yankees, so he understands it’s different than any other place. Drawback: Steinbrenner views him as a “Zimmer Man” and The Boss despises Don Zimmer.
TONY LA RUSSA (10-1): Close to leaving St. Louis one year after leading the Cardinals to an improbable World Series title. Certainly has the credentials and would be instantly respected. Drawback: Is often prickly with the St. Louis media, which doesn’t compare to the media in New York. The pressure of the Yankees and La Russa might not be a good marriage.