The managerial round-up is just about over, and former Twins manager Ron Gardenhire has been unable to get back in the game.
It's known that Gardenhire interviewed for openings at Washington and San Diego. Those close to Gardenhire believed he was a front runner to take over the Padres, so many were surprised when San Diego hired Andy Green last week. Rick Anderson, Gardenhire's long-time pitching coach, was going to join him if he had landed the gig. And there was a chance he would have reached out to his former coaches, like Scott Ullger, to be part of his staff. But it never got to that point, as Green became the Padres new manager.
Seven teams have changed mangers this year, with the Dodgers job the only one that remains open. But there are no indications that Gardenhire, 1,068-1,039 in 13 seasons with the Twins, is under consideration for that job. He was ready to return to the dugout after taking his first summer off since high school.
If something doesn't develop with the Dodgers, Gardenhire will have to wait until someone is fired during the season. Just because things didn't work out for him this offseason doesn't mean he'll never get another job. Heck, Dusty Baker also got an interview with the Nationals. Who knew he was even a candidate? Gardenhire should be able to get interviews in the future if he keeps his name out there.
In other news, Torii Hunter, who announced his retirement last week, is coming to town on Thursday to hold a press conference to talk about his decision. I'm not sure what Hunter will do now that he's retired, but it's a lock the Twins will try to create a role for him within the club. Maybe he can shed some light on that on Thursday.
