/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-tbt.s3.amazonaws.com/public/N4KHT2WIDYI6TJTLIBWI6S7HAY.jpg "Tim Bogar was just hired to work in the Angels front office, but he might still be a candidate to manage the Rays.")
The Rays today are expected to name the 12 or so candidates to replace Joe Maddon. They haven't said exactly what they're looking for, beyond someone to maintain the current clubhouse culture, but it's safe to assume their next manager needs to communicate well; welcome analytical and statistical input; share philosophies on roster construction; and embrace the small-market challenge, all with a positive perspective. Given the disruptive offseason thus far, being at least somewhat familiar to and with the organization should help. So will not seeking a $5 million salary. Grouped by categories, here are some names you will see, and many you may not:
Inside job?
Dave Martinez
7 years as Maddon's bench coach makes him the obvious fit.
Charlie Montoyo
8 seasons of success as Triple-A Durham manager warrant at least an interview.
Rising coaches
Tim Bogar
Worked for Rays, Red Sox, Rangers; just joined Angels front office.
Torey Lovullo
Red Sox bench coach interviewed for several jobs, Twins finalist.
Joe McEwing
White Sox third-base coach has energy and charisma, experience managing in minors, has interviewed for a few jobs.
Ron Wotus
16 years as solid Giants coach (bench now), managed in minors.
Others that could fit: Sandy Alomar Jr. (Indians 1B), Brian Butterfield (Red Sox 3B), Dino Ebel (Angels bench), Tim Flannery (Giants 3B), DeMarlo Hale (Blue Jays bench), Randy Knorr (Nationals bench), Jose Oquendo (Cardinals).
Former managers
Manny Acta
Has been doing TV work since stints with Indians, Nationals.
Rick Renteria
Has solid rep, but being fired so Cubs could hire Maddon doesn't look good here.
Don Wakamatsu
Had 1¾ seasons with Mariners, currently Royals bench coach, very sharp.
Others that don't seem to fit: Ron Gardenhire, Kirk Gibson, Ozzie Guillen, Ron Washington, Bobby Valentine.
Former Rays players
Kevin Cash
Tampa native has played, scouted, and coached (Indians), interviewed very well for Texas job.
Dave Eiland
Local roots, broad background, AL intel, success as pitching coach (currently with Royals).
John Flaherty
Quick-thinking, affable original Devil Rays catcher, currently a Yankees TV broadcaster.
Eric Hinske
Leadership skills are obvious, currently assistant hitting coach for Cubs and that Maddon guy.
Gabe Kapler
Long a favorite of Rays brass, ex-outfielder likely leaving TV gig for job in Dodgers front office.
Outside the box
Rocco Baldelli
Former Rays outfielder has been working in front office, but he's capable of doing much more.
Jason Giambi
Still playing when last seen, but strong leadership skills could translate to manager's office.
Derek Jeter
It's too soon and he doesn't want to manage, but local call and Starbucks meeting = big headlines.
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Explore all your optionsDick Vitale (above)
TV hoops maven/huge Rays fan already tweeted his offer to take the job for four season tickets.
Contact Marc Topkin at mtopkin@tampabay.com. Follow @TBTimes_Rays.
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