Porter a candidate to be next Marlins manager
ST. PETERSBURG -- A second candidate has formally interviewed for Miami's managerial position. Braves third base coach Bo Porter, formerly on the Marlins' staff, recently met with club officials about the job.
Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com first reported Porter interviewed with the club. MLB.com has learned the meeting took place when the Braves were at Miami last weekend for a three-game series at Marlins Park.
The Marlins have not confirmed that the interview has taken place.
Along with Porter, the Marlins have also interviewed Manny Acta, formerly the manager of the Nationals and Indians.
The Marlins have indicated they want a manager with previous big league experience. Indications the club will have an extensive search, and the process could take several weeks after the season.
First, it must be determined what is next for current manager Dan Jennings, who replaced Mike Redmond on May 18.
Under contract through 2018, Jennings could either remain as manager in 2016 or move back into the front office, most likely to his former post as general manager.
Exactly what role Jennings takes will be known after the season and he meets with owner Jeffrey Loria.
Porter was the Marlins third base coach from 2007-09, and he managed the Astros in 2013 through Sept. 1, 2014.
Porter also was on the staffs of the Nationals and D-backs. This is believed to be the third time Porter has interviewed for the Marlins' manager post -- the others were in 2010 and 2011.
The Marlins are winding down a disappointing season in which they've already locked up third place in the National League East.
Although the season fell short of expectations, the Marlins appear to be leaning towards retaining the core of their roster -- at least the position players.
In the offseason, the payroll is expected to increase, although an exact figure has yet to be revealed. On their offseason shopping list, the club is expected to pursue at least one frontline starter as well as a closer or bullpen piece.
The Marlins also were hit hard by injuries this season. They've been without All-Star Giancarlo Stanton, who broke his left hamate bone on June 26, and never returned. Shortstop Adeiny Hechavarria has been out since Sept. 2 with a left hamstring strain.
Jose Fernandez, the ace of the staff, missed much of the first half as he was recovering from Tommy John surgery. Fernandez made his 11th and final start of the season on Thursday at Tampa Bay.
Miami's next manager should have the benefits of a healthy Stanton and Fernandez.