Rocco Baldelli Steps Aside from Seattle Mariners Manager Search
Former Minnesota Twins manager Rocco Baldelli withdrew his candidacy for the Seattle Mariners’ managerial position, leaving two known candidates in the race.
Rocco Baldelli has removed himself from consideration for the Seattle Mariners’ next manager, citing family considerations, according to reports from The Athletic. Baldelli’s exit narrows the field to former Astros bench coach Joe Espada and Cubs director of player development Jason Kanzler, though the club is said to be evaluating additional unnamed candidates.
Mariners officials indicated the hiring process is in an advanced stage, and the withdrawal could require the organization to shift focus to its remaining options. President of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto has suggested a preference for an experienced manager over a first-time MLB skipper, a factor that may give Espada an advantage.
Baldelli, who led the Minnesota Twins to three AL Central titles and a 527-505 record over seven seasons, was dismissed after the Twins posted a 70-92 record in 2025 and entered a fire-sale at the trade deadline. The Mariners announced that former manager Dan Wilson will not return for the 2027 season, extending the search that began nearly a month ago.