October 24, 2014

TO POINT C

When Andrew Friedman left the Rays for the Dodgers, Tampa was mildly shocked. But with today's news that manager Joe Maddon has exercised an opt-out clause in his contract, he won't manage the Rays in 2015. That is a death knell to the Rays.

Maddon has a stellar reputation as a major league manager. He has great feel of mentoring young players. As a franchise with a limited payroll, the Rays have been highly competitive in the AL East.

But the Rays are going head first into a transition period after the David Price trade. Times will be difficult, and the departure of two major foundational men is going to accelerate the decline.

But this puts Maddon on the market for a new job. Every other team is going to look hard at their current manager to weigh a potential upgrade.

Does anyone think that Rick Renteria has the skill set to lead the Cubs to a championship?

Does anyone think that Robin Ventura has the skill set to lead the White Sox to a championship?

By most measures, insiders would consider Maddon an upgrade over the two Chicago skippers.

But since Friedman has left for LA, Don Mattingly, who was already on the hot seat for some of his moves (especially in the playoffs), may be on the way out to make room for Maddon.

And since the Dodgers are apparently paying "double" for talent, Maddon will be drawn to the Dodgers by finances alone.