Mariners Consider Jason Kanzler for Manager Position

The Seattle Mariners are in the process of selecting a new manager after parting ways with Dan Wilson last month. Reports indicate that Jason Kanzler, Joe Espada, and Rocco Baldelli are among the candidates being considered, with the search described as being in an advanced stage.

Kanzler, 36, was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in 2013 and has held various coaching roles, including a position as hitting coordinator in the Astros' minor league system. He was promoted to the major league staff in 2022 and served as assistant hitting coach in 2023 before joining the Cubs as director of player development in January 2024. Unlike Espada and Baldelli, who have prior managerial experience, Kanzler's selection would be unconventional due to his relative youth and limited experience.

The Mariners also showed interest in Torey Lovullo, who has since signed a new contract with the Diamondbacks. Mariners president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto previously indicated a preference for a manager with experience while also expressing a desire for innovative ideas.