Dodgers Rumors: LA May Lose Top Coach to American League Squad

This would be a big loss for the Dodgers.

It seems that the Dodgers could lose a key member of their coaching staff this offseason. LA first-base coach Clayton McCullough has been a hot name on the open market for managerial positions over the last few years, and it seems that it is gaining steam again this year.  

McCullough recently interviewed for the open position with the Cleveland Guardians, and Cleveland came away impressed.

“The Guardians’ search for manager Terry Francona’s replacement continues. They recently interviewed Dodger first base coach Clayton McCullough. The Guardians, according to a source, came away impressed.”

Per Paul Hoynes of Cleveland.com

This isn’t surprising to hear as McCullough has a great baseball IQ, and he could provide a team with a lot if hired. He interviewed for the New York Mets job two years ago but lost out to Buck Showalter. The Mets could also be another spot for McCullough to land as well.

After being in the Dodgers system for so long, he has learned a thing or two, and teams would love to try to duplicate the success. LA has been one of the more successful teams, at least regular season-wise, in recent memory and other teams would love the chance to build a similar path.

“Cleveland’s front office is said to currently be making calls around the big leagues vetting their candidates. They are looking for a young manager who can handle analytics, in-game strategy and the clubhouse to replace Francona who is stepping aside after 11 successful years in Cleveland.”

Per Paul Hoynes of Cleveland.com

McCullough should be given a chance this offseason, and it seems that he could very well land a job. While the Dodgers would be sad to see him leave, they would completely support him as he tries to further his career.

It remains to be seen if he will indeed land a job this winter, but the fact that he is once again interviewing could mean something. It would be a big hole to fill if he leaves, but LA could easily get someone else to take over for him.