The beginning of spring training gives home to fans and teams alike, all striving for the ultimate goal to be the last team standing holding the coveted World Series championship trophy. More immediate goals for some players are just to make a roster, earn a starting position of be a difference maker. Managers must not only assemble the best team possible, but for those on the hot seat, must get off to a fast start to potentially avoid the unemployment line. Hereโs the top three managers entering 2020 on the hot seat.
Dave Roberts โ Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers are a proud franchise with six World Series titles, but none since 1988, despite having won the NL West seven consecutive seaons and nine out of the last 12. After Don Mattingly failed to bring a championship to Los Angeles, Dave Roberts was brought on to lead the team and although winning two NL Pennants, he too has failed to take a dominatingly talented team to the top. With the addition of Mookie Betts and David Price via trade, the excuses are gone and this could be Roberts last chance. Win of bust is likely the motto this season for Roberts and the Dodgers.
Aaron Boone โ New York Yankees
In a very similar scenario as the Dodgers, the Yankees are clearly expected to get to the top and win it all. They have arguably the most talented team in the league, and despite 203 wins over the last two seasons, have failed to reach the World Series.ย Boone is a highly motivated, energetic leader but ultimately the results on the field matter the most. With the addition of prize free agent, Gerit Cole, the Yankees have their best shot to win the World Series for the first time since 2009. Anything less could be the end of Booneโs reign at the helm.
Rick Renteria โ Chicago White Sox
The White Sox made significant upgrades in the off season in hopes to improve on a 72-win season in 2019. The signing of Yasmani Grandal (28 hr, 77 RBI) and the trade for Nomar Mazara (19 hr, 66 RBI) should be solid upgrades to an offense that scored the third fewest runs in the AL least season. After winning just 201 games against 284 losses in his three years at the helm, Renteria needs the White Sox to show they can compete early or he could see life as White Sox manager terminated.