The Orioles are zeroing in on Buck Showalter as their choice for manager, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports. Showalter, who last managed the Texas Rangers from 2002 through 2006, spoke with the O's today.
Over the weekend, it was reported that Showalter and former Indians manager Eric Wedge were the leading candidates for the position. Wedge was called in for a second interview on Friday.
Showalter, 54, has a track record of improving the fortunes of young clubs including the aforementioned Rangers, Yankees, and Diamondbacks. Bobby Valentine was also in the mix at one point, but opted to withdraw his name from consideration once the Florida job became available.
What an awful direction for the Orioles to head. This guy has proven to be nothing but a jerk, wherever he’s been. It’s hard to believe such a storied franchise has become such a laughingstock.
Maybe MacFail will make a final decision in a month or so, it is not like things are dire in BAL.
A good choice – constantly hiring managers with no experience has failed and this team needs someone to kick a little butt. As to the speed of making a decision – what’s the rush? It’s not as if this season can be saved. It’s better to take some time and try to make the best choice possible.