As the Los Angeles Dodgers are working through the early stages of MLB free agency, they also face the possibility of potential changes to their coaching staff and within the front office. Specifically with third base coach Chris Woodward and general manager Farhan Zaidi.
First, a report suggested the San Francisco Giants were targeting Zaidi for their president of baseball operations position. Zaidi and Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman declined to address whether the Giants were granted permission for an interview.
Meanwhile, Woodward has already interviewed with the Texas Rangers for their vacant managerial position. He’s among multiple candidates believed to be receiving consideration for the role.
However, Woodward appears to have separated himself from the pack, according to Jon Morosi of MLB Network:
Chris Woodward has emerged as a frontrunner to be named #Rangers manager, although the team has yet to reach a decision, sources say. Woodward and Derek Shelton both are strong candidates for the job, according to @Ken_Rosenthal and @DanHayesMLB. @MLB @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 2, 2018
In addition to duties as third base coach, Woodward is lauded for his work with infielders. Friedman specifically mentioned his aiding Manny Machado after the Dodgers acquired the All-Star shortstop.
Speaking at the same end-of-season press conference, Zaidi said the team planned to have manager Dave Roberts and his entire coaching staff return for the 2019 season. Zaidi added new contracts were expected to be in place within the next week.
Woodward interviewed with the New York Yankees last offseason when they were searching for a replacement to Joe Girardi. However, he was not among the finalists, however, and the Yankees ultimately hired Aaron Boone.
