Mariners narrow managerial search to Joe Espada and Jason Kanzler
Seattle is set to interview former Astros manager Joe Espada and Cubs director of player development Jason Kanzler as the final candidates for the Mariners' vacant manager position.
The Seattle Mariners are close to selecting a new manager, with former Houston Astros skipper Joe Espada and Cubs director of player development Jason Kanzler identified as the final candidates, according to reports from The Seattle Times. Both candidates are scheduled for in-person interviews on Tuesday and Wednesday, and the club aims to announce its choice by the end of the week.
The search initially considered 30 to 40 names, including former Mariners outfielder Rocco Baldelli, who withdrew his candidacy, and other prospects such as White Sox bench coach Walker McKinven and Rays senior advisor Brandon Hyde, who are no longer in contention.
Espada, 51, brings three seasons of managerial experience with the Astros, leading the team to American League West titles in 2024 and this season, though the club chose not to retain him for 2027. Kanzler, 36, has not managed at the major-league level but has served as a minor-league hitting coordinator, major-league coach, and assistant hitting coach before becoming the Cubs' director of player development in 2024.
Mariners officials will meet with each candidate, along with coaches, front-office staff, and ownership representatives, to determine which profile best fits the organization as it seeks to improve after a disappointing season.