The Miami Marlins’ managerial search appears to be down to two candidates, according to a report.
The Marlins are deciding between Cleveland Guardians bench coach Craig Albernaz and Texas Rangers associate manager Will Venable to fill their opening, according to Craig Mish of the Miami Herald. Mish conceded it is possible for a “mystery candidate” to emerge, but suggested that it would be a surprise at this point.
The Miami Marlins are down to two finalists for their new Manager. Cleveland Guardians bench coach Craig Albernaz and Texas Rangers Associate Manager Will Venable.
— Craig Mish (@CraigMish) October 28, 2024
Both Albernaz and Venable would be first-time managers, and it is not a huge surprise the Marlins are going that route. They figure to have a very young and non-competitive roster in 2025 as the organization looks to keep costs down.
Venable is the better-known candidate thanks to his lengthy playing career, primarily with the San Diego Padres. He has plenty of connections, as he was formerly Alex Cora’s bench coach in Boston before moving to Texas to work alongside Bruce Bochy. Albernaz is not quite as experienced, as 2024 was his first season as a bench coach on Cleveland’s staff under Stephen Vogt.
The Marlins were thought to be considering a history-making candidate for the open job, but that does not appear to be coming to fruition.
After a 62-100 campaign, the Marlins are looking for a replacement for Skip Schumaker, who parted ways with the team at the end of the season after two years as manager.
