No front runner for Miami Marlins' managerial job

Miami is expected to hire a new manager for 2016. But the organization is in no hurry to make a decision.

After opting to have Dan Jennings move into the dugout once Mike Redmond was dismissed, the Marlins will wait until the end of the season in order to ensure they are not leaving looking past any potential candidates, according to Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald.

While the expectation is Miami will announce a new manager at some point this winter, likely in the weeks leading up to the annual Winter Meetings, Greg Cote of The Herald suggests the Marlins should hire a manager now in an attempt to get a head start on 2016. However, unless the club has a candidate in mind, doing so might limit its options.

Since neither Ozzie Guillen nor Larry Beinfest will be on the organization's payroll at the end of the season, the Marlins have additional flexibility. Some of that can be used towards a manager although most of it will likely be used to help Jennings put together a contending team in 2016.

Once Redmond was dismissed, Jeff Conine was thought to be in line to become the next manager. However, Conine either was not offered or did not accept the position. Mike Lowell could be another option but he recently said he is not ready to make such a lengthy time commitment. The Marlins are also known to be seeking an experienced candidate, which would eliminate Conine and Lowell from the managerial conversation.

Ron Gardenhire, Dusty Baker, Bud Black, and Ron Roenicke all have experience and could be considered by the Marlins. Andy Barkett managed Double-A Jacksonville to a championship last season and might be an internal option to watch. Charlie Manuel, Jim Riggleman, and Tim Wallach could also be possible.

MLB.com's Joe Frisaro previously noted Riggleman, who is currently Cincinnati's third base coach, could be an ideal fit because the Marlins are seeking a "no-nonsense personality in the dugout."

Miami should be in a position to compete next season and plans to add a new manager. But as of now, there is no front runner.