Rangers hitting coach Dave Magadan left the position yesterday, and Evan Grant of DallasNews.com examines four possible candidates to replace him. Three of those are former MLB stars: Jason Giambi, Michael Young and Ivan Rodriguez. Giambi is widely considered a potential future manager, and he already works with young Rangers power hitter Joey Gallo. Young is a special assistant with the Rangers, but Grant feels he’s unlikely to take the hitting coach job and spend less time with his family. Rodriguez was briefly rumored to be a candidate for the Marlins’ manager job earlier this year. Grant also mentions Rangers minor-league hitting instructor Justin Mashore, noting that the organization holds Mashore in high regard. Here’s more from the West divisions.
- The Dodgers have announced the resignation of Vice President, Medical Services and Head Trainer Stan Conte, who had worked with the team for nine years. “I want to thank Stan for his contributions to the Dodgers over the past nine years as well as all he has done for the entire community of sports medicine,” says Dodgers exec Andrew Friedman. The departure could be the first of many within the Dodgers organization after a disappointing exit from the playoffs this week.
- The Rockies need to get more from their bench next season, writes Patrick Saunders of the Denver Post. In particular, Daniel Descalso, Wilin Rosario and the since-departed Drew Stubbs struggled. 3B/OF Rafael Ynoa and outfielder Brandon Barnes appear likely to take two bench spots next year, but beyond that, the Rockies’ plans are unclear. Rosario, however, appears likely to depart — he could be a non-tender candidate and has also already indicated that he’s open to being traded.
I thought it was time to let Conte go a long time ago. Pretty sure the Dodgers led the league the past few years in hamstring injuries.
So do the Dodgers resign Greinke or do they move on to a younger option like Price or Zimmerman?
I don’t think it is a given they sign a front line starter even if they lose Greinke, they should focus on another year of shedding payroll, and letting their young players develop, they have the potential for 3 very good arms in the minor leagues, if they play things right they can open up a very long window of contending, without free agency.
I say they get both Price and Zimmerman and 3 bullpen (at least one elite)arms
I believe they will re-sign Greinke. Price may require more years than they care to commit, but they shouldn’t count on McCarthy or Ryu. One mid-rotation starter and a QO to Anderson to move him back to the 5 slot. As for the bullpen, I agree with kershawsrightarm. They need 3 and a prayer.
I think they’ll resign Greinke & also acquire another SP. Not sure how well McCarthy or Ryu are doing rehabbing from their injuries. Hoping they’ll upgrade LF. The bullpen is fine, they’re young & I’m sure they’re not going to add expensive arms only to see them falter.