Latest On Guardians' Search For Next Manager

The Cleveland Guardians are reportedly still interviewing candidates for their managerial opening.

The Cleveland Guardians are taking their time to find the perfect replacement for Terry Francona after he announced he would be stepping down as the team's skipper. 

Late last week, sideline reporter Andre Knott said that he believes the team could want to have their next manager in place by the time the World Series rolls around. However, both championship series start this weekend and the latest on Cleveland's search suggests they are still deep in their search.

Tom Withers of the Associated Press reported on Friday afternoon that, "the Guardians have conducted Zoom and in-person interviews with 'a handful of candidates.'"

The Guardians have conducted Zoom and in-person interviews with "a handful of candidates." Search to replace Francona continues.

— Tom Withers (@twithersAP) October 13, 2023

Withers did not specify who those candidates were but surely implied the team is still searching for who will succeed Francona.

President of Baseball Operations Chris Antonetti said the organization had put together a list of 45-48 people who they were interested in interviewing. That list has likely shrunk since their closing press conference almost two weeks ago now, but the search goes on.

Jun 11, 2023; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Guardians third base coach Mike Sarbaugh (16), manager Terry Francona (77) and pitching coach Carl Willis (51) watch from the dugout in the seventh inning against the Houston Astros at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports / © David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

This report comes as two potential names have apparently come off the board. 

Kevin Cash admitted he enjoys managing the Tampa Bay Rays so it seems unlikely that he will be coming to Cleveland this offseason. Will Venable, who was another intriguing candidate, will reportedly stay with the Texas Rangers as they prepare for their first ALCS since 2011. 

At this point, it's anyone's guess on who will take over the dugout and lead Cleveland's young core. We do know the Guardians are going to take their time so they know they find the perfect one for the job.