Guardians' search for next manager ongoing

The Cleveland Guardians' search for Terry Francona's successor continues. The team has reportedly interviewed candidates in-person and over Zoom. While no specific names were provided at this time, it was noted that "a handful of candidates" have taken part in this process.

External options in and out of the running

There are a few external names that can be ruled out this time. Despite being mentioned as a remote possibility, Tampa Bay Rays manager Kevin Cash will not be on the move this offseason. A post from Peter Gammons fueled rumors that Cash could return to Cleveland and could be in the cards, only for that to not be the case, at least for now. Rangers associate manager Will Venable was at one point considered the favorite to fill the position, only for him to tell teams interested in his services that he is remaining in Texas. 

Candidates previously mentioned who have not removed themselves, at least publicly, include Giants coach Craig Albernaz and Yankees coach Carlos Mendoza. Albernaz could be an option to replace Gabe Kapler in San Francisco, so that is an obstacle for Cleveland in their managerial search, as he may not want to leave the Bay Area. 

Possible Internal candidates

As far as names who are already in the organization, the most mentioned options by fans are not in the cards. Third base coach Mike Sarbaugh is not being interviewed for the position, and first base coach Sandy Alomar Jr. is not interested. Minor league field coordinator John McDonald is believed to be an option the Guardians are considering, according to a report. 

The one thing that is known is that the organization is looking to wrap up the quest of finding Francona's successor rather quickly. Guardians sideline reporter Andre Knott said, "I think they want to have something before the end of the World Series"during an appearance on ESPN Cleveland. Considering each league's Championship Series is about to begin, they are still able to make a hire on their desired timeline, but the end of the Fall Classic will be here before they know it.