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Who should stick, scram

Garner’s exit fuels talk of other managerial openings

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Posted: Wednesday August 18, 1999 09:33 PM

It took until the middle of August, but a manager has finally gotten fired this season. So while Phil Garner works on his resume, let me give you an idea of some other managerial positions that I think should be available next season.

In Baltimore, the Orioles have a $78 million payroll and nothing to show for it in 1 ½ years under Ray Miller. The Orioles need a major shakeup -- starting with their manager. But with unpredictable owner Peter Angelos calling the shots, Miller could continue to hang on.

Anaheim's Terry Collins led the Angels to two straight winning seasons going into this year and was recently given a contract extension. However, the Angels are showing no signs of life, clubhouse dissension is growing and something has to be done to fire this club up. I think Collins needs to go.

Just one season after leading the Cubs to the playoffs, Chicago manager Jim Riggleman is on the hot seat -- and he knows it. I recently spoke with Jim and he told me the Cubs’ biggest problem has been a pitching staff that isn't getting enough ground ball outs in cozy Wrigley Field. Jim has done more with less talent than most managers. This team needs to find a sinkerball pitcher, not a new skipper.

Davey Johnson's first season in Los Angeles has been a major disappointment, considering the Dodgers' talent and the money they've spent. But I say he should get another chance, and his status should be reevaluated at midseason next year.

And finally, Lou Piniella has made the playoffs twice in Seattle and always has one of the majors' best offenses. But this team has never reached the next level and seems to be stagnating. I think both Lou and the Mariners would benefit from a parting of the ways.

Making his list

Commissioner Bud Selig has ordered teams to show him their lists of candidates for manager and front-office positions to make sure minorities are given fair consideration.

Watch for guys like Davey Lopes, Willie Randolph and Don Baylor to get plenty of attention this offseason, especially in Milwaukee, where Selig's daughter runs the club.

 

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