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Before the end of the season, Rick Renteria was linked to the Marlins' managerial job. As the club continues searching for its next manager, Renteria is officially being considered.
According to Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald, Renteria has "spoken to the Marlins" about the possibility of becoming the next manager. While Renteria might not have officially interviewed for the job, Miami could discuss arrangements for a sit down meeting in the coming days.
Miami is seeking an experienced candidate, and in addition to managing in the past, Renteria played for the Marlins. As a result, he has experience operating within the organization and could be viewed favorably.
When the Cubs hired Renteria before the start of last season, they appeared confident he would be their manager for the foreseeable future. However, Chicago did not have a notable amount of success under Renteria, ultimately ending the 2014 campaign 73-89.
After his first year managing a major league club, Renteria was fired by the Cubs, who subsequently hired Joe Maddon. Maddon opted out of his contract with the Rays and as a result was being considered by a handful of clubs seeking new managers. The Cubs were linked to Maddon while Renteria was still the manager, and Renteria was reportedly aware of the Chicago's interest in the former Rays skipper.
Ultimately, Renteria might not have been fired as a result of the way the Cubs performed in 2014. Chicago simply saw an opportunity to hire Maddon, who is considered to be one of the best managers in the game. Renteria was not necessarily dismissed as a result of the way the club performed, which could work in his favor this winter.
Renteria is not known for having a fiery personality, which is something the Marlins' front office is known to be fond of with regard to a manager's persona. However, he has experience as both a player and manager and could bring stability to Miami's dugout.
Renteria joins Bo Porter, Manny Acta, Larry Bowa, Phil Nevin and Alex Cora as known candidates for the job. Don Mattingly could emerge as the front runner if the Dodgers opt to fire him.