Rocco Baldelli Withdraws Name From Mariners’ Managerial Search

Former Minnesota Twins manager Rocco Baldelli has removed himself from consideration for the Seattle Mariners' managerial vacancy due to family considerations. Baldelli's withdrawal comes as Seattle's search to replace Dan Wilson enters an advanced stage, leaving former Houston Astros manager Joe Espada and Chicago Cubs director of player development Jason Kanzler as the only known candidates remaining.

Mariners president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto reportedly preferred hiring an experienced manager, which could favor Espada over Kanzler. Baldelli, who managed the Twins for seven seasons and led them to three AL Central division titles, had spent the previous season working in a front-office assistant role with the Los Angeles Dodgers.