Following the retirement of Tony La Russa, numerous names have popped up as potential managerial candidates for the St. Louis Cardinals. However, according to the St. Louis Cardinals Twitter page, a decision has been made, with former Cardinals catcher Mike Matheny set to be announced as the new manager:
@Cardinals: Cardinals to unveil former catcher Mike Matheny as manager on Monday at Busch Stadium.
There had been some speculation that Matheny might be the primary target for the job, with Bernie Miklasz from the St. Louis Post Dispatch predicting that he would be named the next manager for the following reasons:
Immense leadership potential. A strong Cardinals pedigree; earned respect as a catcher here from 2000-2004. Could keep much of a veteran coaching staff together. Familiar with current Cardinals and has a good handle on their minor-league system. Popular with fans. Former teammates have called Mozeliak to urge Matheny's hiring. Has the respect of key veteran players. A Mozeliak ally, Matheny would work well with all branches of the baseball operation.