GLENDALE, AZ - FEBRUARY 25: Gabe Kapler #35 of the Los Angeles Dodgers poses for a photo on photo day at Camelback Ranch on February 25, 2011 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Gabe Kapler
Gabe Kapler, photographed in Dodgers gear for 2011 photo day, never played a game for the Dodgers, but is a leading candidate to become their next manager. Harry How Getty Images
Only a day after the Los Angeles Dodgers mutually parted ways with manager Don Mattingly, a frontrunner has emerged to take over as the team's next skipper.
According to FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal, former major-league outfielder Gabe Kapler is the consensus leader to fill the Dodgers' managerial post, per those in the industry.
The 40-year-old Kapler, who retired from baseball in 2011 after being released by the Dodgers after spring training, served as LA's director of player development for this season, and is said to hold a close relationship with president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman, who was hired by the Dodgers after the 2014 season.
While Kapler has no previous major-league managerial experience, he has managed in the minors with the Boston Red Sox and coached the Israeli national team for the 2013 World Baseball Classic.
The Dodgers' front office has said it is seeking a candidate who is open-minded and can effectively lead the clubhouse.
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