Knorr very interested in Nats' managerial post

PHILADELPHIA -- With Davey Johnson retiring at the end of the 2013 season, bench coach Randy Knorr said Monday he would like to be considered as the next manager of the Nationals.

"I would like [the Nationals] to consider me. But I know [general manager] Mike [Rizzo] has a bunch of people in mind, also," Knorr said. "It would be an honor to be considered for that job. … I try not to think too far ahead. I like to take things day by day."

Knorr is more than qualified for the job. Of current players on the Major League roster, Knorr managed 11 of them, including Ryan Zimmerman and Stephen Strasburg, in the Minor Leagues.

In 2008, while managing Class A Potomac, Knorr guided the team to the Carolina League championship.

Knorr is also not afraid to speak his mind. While filling in for Johnson last Friday, Knorr called outfielder Bryce Harper out for not hustling against the Mets. In a game against the Pirates on July 26, Knorr quickly yanked Rafael Soriano out of the game in the ninth inning as he struggled with command.

"I think it's very important to speak your mind," Knorr said. "Your players will never be in the dark in what you believe in. I don't have secrets with my players. They asked me a question, I'll be as honest as I can with them. You have a better relationship with them. They are not always trying to figure you out. … They know where you are coming from, they have no problems with it."