Former SF Giants coach withdraws from consideration for Marlins managerial vacancy

Former SF Giants coach Craig Albernaz was considered a favorite to land the Miami Marlins managerial job. In a bit of a surprise, he withdrew from consideration according to Jeff Passan of ESPN.

Former SF Giants coach withdraws from consideration for Marlins managerial vacancy

Passan notes that Albernaz also withdrew his name from consideration for the Chicago White Sox gig as well. That job eventually went to former major league outfielder Will Venable. Given the season that the White Sox just had, that would have been a tough role for any person to assume.

For now, Albernaz will remain with the Cleveland Guardians as their bench coach but there is a good chance that he manages down the road. The interviews with the Marlins and White Sox represented his second-and-third opportunities to run a big league clubhouse.

The first came last offseason when he interviewed for the Cleveland Guardians manager gig. Terry Francona stepped down from that role and was eventually replaced by Stephen Vogt. However, the interview process can also serve as a way to evaluate not only who will be leading the team but who will be a part of that coaching staff.

One of Vogt's first acts as Guardians manager was tabbing Albernaz to be his bench coach. For Albernaz, it represented a promotion as he had spent the previous four years as the Giants' bullpen and catching coach. He was often recognized for his work in improving pitch framing among the team's catchers.

When Gabe Kapler was fired last season, many of the coaches were free to look elsewhere. Albernaz along with former Giants bench coach Kai Correa both joined the Guardians organization.

There is a good chance that Albernaz would have become the Marlins' next manager if he did not withdraw. He has strong ties to a few key voices in the front office.

Of course, Kapler is now an assistant general manager for the Marlins and hired Albernaz as part of his staff with San Francisco. On top of this, Marlins general manager Peter Bendix and Albernaz crossed paths when they both worked for the Tampa Bay Rays organization in the late 2010's. Bendix worked in Tampa Bay's front office, whereas Albernaz served as a coach, manager, and coordinator in the minors with the Rays.

Pre-existing relationships do not mean that someone will get the job. Though, it can certainly open the door for a conversation. While Albernaz passed on this opportunity, it may not be long before he becomes a manager.