Two MLB Firings Put Manager Candidates to Watch Into Focus

The MLB managerial carousel hit warp speed on Monday.

The San Francisco Giants dismissed Bob Melvin after two seasons, and the Minnesota Twins moved on from Rocco Baldelli a day after finishing 70–92. Both front offices framed it as a need for a “different voice,” which is polite for “we need a new plan.”

The interview lines just lit up.

San Francisco Giants Manager Candidates

Buster Posey wants an obsessive detail freak who can stabilize a .500 roster and squeeze margins while the retool continues. Expect a wide net with familiar names and a few modern operators.

Bruce Bochy (Texas Rangers manager):
The reunion talk started immediately. AP and others noted Bochy as a logical name, and USA Today’s Bob Nightengale literally floated the idea on X: “It will be fascinating to see now if Buster Posey gets the band together and tries to lure Bruce Bochy back to San Francisco.” That’s smoke, not fire, but it’s very real background noise the same day Melvin was let go.

Mark Hallberg (Giants 1B coach):
Internal continuity with a new edge. Hallberg already has organizational trust and a prior interview history; if Posey wants a voice he knows, Hallberg fits. (Local chatter keeps him on every short list.)

Craig Albernaz (Cleveland Guardians associate manager):
Ex-Giants catching/bullpen coach who’s been fast-tracked in Cleveland under Stephen Vogt. Defense/game-planning chops line up with Posey’s public wish list.

Skip Schumaker (Rangers senior adviser):
Credible culture builder who won MOY in Miami; if he wants back in a dugout, San Francisco will at least kick the tires.

Minnesota Twins manager Rocco Baldelli was fired after a 70-92 season.© John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports

Minnesota Twins Manager Candidates

Derek Falvey said the move was about results, not effort, after a 23–43 second half. Minnesota’s brief is steadier in-game management, development, and a healthier day-to-day floor.

Brandon Hyde:
He belongs on any shortlist. Baltimore dismissed him on May 17, but his rep as a steady developer who shepherded a young core back to relevance travels well. If a club prioritizes growth and structure, Hyde profiles as a cleaner fit for Minnesota than a splash-seeking SF.

Jayce Tingler (Twins bench coach):
The cleanest handoff, if they want continuity with a new voice. Ex-Padres skipper, trusted internally, and already wired into the clubhouse.

James Rowson (New York Yankees hitting coach):
Deep Twins ties from the Bomba-Squad era; strong communicator with development bona fides. National lists keep connecting him here for a reason.

Tony Mansolino (Baltimore Orioles interim):
If Baltimore goes another direction, his infield/development background and interim work this year keep him in multiple conversations — including Minnesota’s.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Sep 30, 2025, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Two MLB Firings Put Manager Candidates to Watch Into Focus

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