Miami Marlins should only consider experienced managers in search

Phil Nevin might have a notable amount of minor league experience. He might be highly recommended by Dave Stewart. But he does not have major league experience, and that is exactly what the Marlins are looking for.

USA Today's Bob Nightengale reported Nevin, the manager of the Diamondbacks' Triple-A affiliate, interviewed on Thursday for the Marlins' managerial job. Miami has publicly said its search for the next manager will be lengthy and extensive. Anywhere from four to 20 candidates could be considered. It remains important for the Marlins to interview the right candidates, though.

After dismissing Mike Redmond and opting to have Dan Jennings move into the dugout, the Marlins are aware of the qualities they want their next manager to have. Redmond was well-liked and respected and had playing experience. However, he had never managed a club. Neither had Jennings. Neither of the two had a notable amount of success.

More often than not, many overlook and question the importance of clubhouse culture. The Marlins appear to have a core and multiple leaders in place. Martin Prado is among them. The manager is not only responsible for making a lineup card, but also for dealing with any clubhouse or performance-based conflicts. That might be a challenge for any inexperienced manager.

As the Marlins begin their search, they have mainly been connected to individuals with some form of experience in a major league dugout. Manny Acta and Larry Bowa have reportedly already been interviewed and Dusty Baker has been connected to the opening. Several more experienced candidates will probably be considered. But so will others, like Nevin, who have not managed a major league club.

While the Marlins should interview every individual they feel is capable of thriving in Miami, they should also remember the past. Redmond, familiar with the organization and its structure, was hired with no prior experience. What makes Nevin different from Redmond?

It simply would not be fair to state the Marlins should only interview experienced individuals. It probably would not be realistic either. But the Marlins need to remember their goals as the offseason begins. Number one is hiring an experienced major league manager. Whether that can be accomplished remains to be seen.