One Minute Poll: Who Should Cardinals Target As Next Manager?

St. Louis Cardinals manager John Mozeliak has quite a challenge

in front of his as he will have the unenviable task of trying to 

replace future Hall of Fame manager Tony La Russa.  But who 

should he target? - Photo courtesy of Getty Images

To the surprise of many, especially after the St. Louis Cardinals magical six week run that ended with a World Series Championship, manager Tony La Russa announced on Monday morning that he would no longer manage the Cardinals and has chosen now as the right time to retire from the game of baseball.  

So just three days after claiming the franchise's 11th World Series Championship, the Cardinals and general manager John Mozeliak will start what is sure to be an intense search for the organization's next manager.

But who should that manager be?  Which direction should the Cardinals go?

Some believe it is mandatory the Cardinals hire a big name manager.

Former Red Sox manager Terry Francona seems like an obvious candidate.  So does ESPN Baseball Tonight analyst Bobby Valentine, who some believe could return to the dugout at some point.

Some people, such as Bernie Miklasz of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, have suggested the organization target Tampa Bay Rays manager Joe Maddon.  But Maddon is under contract and the Cardinals would need permission from the Rays to speak with Maddon about the opening.

While big name, experienced managers may be a popular choice among some, the Cardinals could turn to an inexperienced candidate.

Long-time third base coach Jose Oquendo certainly will get a look and an interview from the club.  You would have to think that former Cardinals third baseman Terry Pendleton would also have interest.

A real wild-card could also be Ryne Sandberg.  The former Chicago Cubs Hall of Fame second baseman has been a minor league manager for several seasons and seems to be primed to get a shot in the big leagues.  Could he be a fit in St. Louis?

So who should it be?  Who should be the Cardinals top target?  Vote now!





Sources:

• Miklasz on Joe Maddon as next Cardinals manager