The Cleveland Guardians have already lost coaches and executives this off-season.
It’s nothing new: it happens to every team, even the most powerful ones, because it’s often not just a raise involved but a promotion and a step closer to the ladder in the quest of becoming a manager, a general manager, or another key position.
Contending teams often look around the market and identify executives or coaching candidates on the rise, and successful organizations like the Guardians have plenty of these.
Their bench coach Craig Albernaz has been in the position for just one year, replacing DeMarlo Hale before the start of the 2024 campaign.
He had a highly successful year as Stephen Vogt’s right hand, and teams looking for a manager, like the Miami Marlins, have made him a priority.
According to a recent report, Albernaz is now a finalist for the Marlins’ gig.
“The Miami Marlins are down to two finalists for their new Manager. Cleveland Guardians bench coach Craig Albernaz and Texas Rangers Associate Manager Will Venable,” Marlins insider Craig Mish posted on X.
The Miami Marlins are down to two finalists for their new Manager. Cleveland Guardians bench coach Craig Albernaz and Texas Rangers Associate Manager Will Venable.
— Craig Mish (@CraigMish) October 28, 2024
Venable is also on the rise and got to watch and learn from one of the best in Bruce Bochy in Texas, so Albernaz has competition.
Still, it speaks volumes of Albernaz’s baseball IQ, preparation and project that he is one of two finalists for an MLB managing job.
A decision is expected to come in the next few days, but the Guardians could lose a key member of their coaching staff if the Marlins end up choosing Albernaz.
NEXT: Guardians Catching Prospect Is Impressing In The Arizona Fall League
