Miami Marlins preparing to 'iron out' deal with Don Mattingly

Cross Larry Bowa off the list of candidates to become the next Marlins manager. According to MLB.com's Todd Zolecki, Bowa agreed to return to Philadelphia as the club's bench coach Tuesday.

Bowa's decision likely indicates the Marlins are currently negotiating a deal with Don Mattingly.

Miami started its managerial search immediately after the season ended and Bowa was quickly connected to the job. He was eventually asked to return for a second interview, however the second meeting came while the Dodgers were still playing in the National League Division Series. Once Los Angeles and Mattingly mutually parted ways, Bowa might not have still been a candidate.

Mattingly, since opting to move on, has been considered the favorite for the Marlins managerial job. He is said to have a good relationship with Owner Jeffrey Loria and has helped the Dodgers win the National League West for the last three seasons. Mattingly reportedly met with Marlins officials Monday, and according to MLB.com's Joe Frisaro, the next step in the process will likely be "ironing out a deal."

Since the Marlins appear to feel Mattingly would be an ideal fit, working out a deal should not prove to be notably challenging. Mattingly was under contract for 2016 and was set to make $1.6 million next season. The Dodgers might be able to save the entire salary, CBS Sports' Jon Heyman notes, and Mattingly's 2016 deal should at least be partially offset by the Marlins.

Mattingly made $1.5 million in 2015 and if Miami feels the former Yankee would thrive in South Florida, he likely will not be deemed too expensive. The length of the deal and certain clauses might have to be discussed, though. Since Miami has been quick to fire managers in the past, Mattingly might request some form of an opt-out clause or at least a deal that includes guaranteed money.

Although Mattingly and the Dodgers both agreed to move forward, the Marlins' interest in Mattingly could have factored into that decision. If that was the case, the Marlins might have to send at least one minor league player to Los Angeles in exchange for Mattingly's services.

Mattingly will likely manage the Marlins in 2016. But the minor details might prevent a deal from getting done quickly.