Cubs Conclude Interview Process For Now

(WSCR) The four men originally selected to interview for the Cubs open managing position have come and gone, and so far, early reports look good.

"No question -- very well prepared," Cubs general manager Jed Hoyer said Friday when asked if he was impressed with the four candidates. "I think that's really the hallmark of a good interview is when a guy takes it very seriously, does his homework and comes in ready to go. All four guys really did that and did a great job. It was clear that they did their homework and that they cared about the process."

The Cubs brought in Rangers pitching coach Mike Maddux, Brewers hitting coach Dale Sveum, Phillies bench coach Pete Mackanin and, most recently, Indians  coach Sandy Alomar Jr.

Though he's never managed professionally before, Alomar is confident he can turn the Cubs around.

"I've experienced a lot as a player and a coach," Alomar said after his interview Friday. "Even though I only have four years of (experience) coaching, I have done many things in a short period of time. ... I take a lot of pride because I treat people the way I want to be treated. I give respect to people so they can give it back to me. I never disrespected a player.

For now, it appears the Cubs have concluded their interview process, but with reports surfacing that former Red Sox manager Terry Francona might be interested in managing on the North Side, nothing is certain.

"I wouldn't rule out an additional candidate, but it's not a certainty either," Hoyer said. "Certainly there are conversations that have gone on between Theo and Tito. They've had a great relationship for a long time. I'd let Theo expand on those conversations. He's the one who's had them. He's the one who had the GM-manager relationship with him for a long time."