Astros bench coach Joe Espada will get a second interview to earn the Giants' managerial job, but he reportedly isn't alone in getting a second chance to gain Farhan Zaidi's approval.
Gabe Kapler, who was fired as manager of the Phillies after two disappointing seasons, will get a second interview with the Giants, Craig Mish reported Monday.
Source : Former Phillies Manager Gabe Kapler is receiving a 2nd interview with the SF Giants for their open Managerial position. I believe it is today.— Craig Mish (@CraigMish) October 28, 2019
Of course, Zaidi and Kapler have a history. Kapler worked for Zaidi and Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman as director of player development, and he was a finalist for the Dodgers' managerial opening in 2015 that went to Dave Roberts. Zaidi always has spoken highly of Kapler and his glowing recommendation no doubt helped get Kapler the Phillies' gig two years ago.
Kapler and Espada currently are the only two candidates who the Giants will bring back for a second interview, but there still is time for Zaidi to get another crack at the likes of Mark Kotsay and Will Venable should he deem it necessary.
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Zaidi has a massive decision ahead of him, choosing a man to replace Bruce Bochy after the legendary skipper elected to end his run as Giants manager at the end of this season. The Giants are entering a new phase of their franchise under Zaidi's watch. With a glut of young talent coming up through the ranks, choosing the right man to lead the team will be of paramount importance.
Kapler's time in Philadelphia got off to a rough start and it never got better. Despite a talented roster, Kapler went just 161-163 in two seasons while facing a ton of criticism about his ability to handle a pitching staff and lead a team to the postseason. This year's team dealt with a number of injuries, but Kapler was unable to patch them up and get them to the playoffs, leading to his dismissal.
[REALTED: Giants mailbag: Will there be another slow offseason for free agency?]
His relationship with Zaidi no doubt gives him an opportunity to land the gig. But is he the right man for the job?
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