Heyman: Marlins job is Don Mattingly's to lose

KANSAS CITY — The Marlins‘ managing job is Don Mattingly’s to lose.

Mattingly –- one of two managers to win division titles the last three years, along with the Cardinals’ Mike Matheny — is meeting with Marlins higher-ups Monday, and he is said to be Miami’s first choice to replace Dan Jennings, who is seen as likely to move back to the front office eventually.

Owner Jeffrey Loria’s first choice for weeks has been Mattingly, people familiar with the situation say, and now that Mattingly is available following his departure from the Dodgers, that hasn’t changed. Loria has known Mattingly for years, and has long admired him.

The Marlins’ search appeared to have been put on semi-hold while awaiting word on the Dodgers situation, and they pounced upon learning last Thursday that Mattingly and the Dodgers were parting ways. The Marlins had interviewed at least Larry Bowa, Bo Porter and Manny Acta.

Should Miami hire Mattingly, the Dodgers’ $1.6-million obligation to Mattingly for 2016 would be offset at least in part by Miami, and with a salary expected to be at least that, LA could actually save the entire salary. Mattingly made $1.5 million this year as Dodgers manager.

Mattingly, 54, posted a record of 446-363 (.551) in five years as Dodgers manager.

CBS Sports first reported on the Marlins’ keen interest in Mattingly.

Don Mattingly could very likely be the next Marlins manager. (USATSI)

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