Phils explore handful of options for pitching coach

PHILADELPHIA -- While the Red Sox and Cardinals play in the World Series, the Phillies continue their search for a pitching coach to replace Rich Dubee.

Bryan Price had been atop their list, but he was recently hired to manage the Reds. The Phillies have interviewed at least five candidates: Phils bullpen coach Rod Nichols, Marlins bullpen coach Reid Cornelius, Pirates special assistant to the general manager Jim Benedict, Triple-A Lehigh Valley pitching coach Ray Burris and Neil Allen, who is the pitching coach for Tampa Bay's Triple-A affiliate.

"We're still talking to people," Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said. "We're doing our due diligence."

Amaro said they may interview others candidates.

Sources earlier this week told MLB.com that the Phillies could make contact with Braves pitching coach Roger McDowell. He has been invited to return to Atlanta next season, but he has not signed his contract. It is expected to arrive before the end of the month, but once his agreement for 2013 ends, the Phillies can contact him.