Cubs To Look At Fredi Gonzalez, Ryne Sandberg As Lou Piniella Replacements

On the heels of Lou Piniella’s announcement that he will retire as Cubs manager following the season, the names of some potential replacements are spilling out. The two so far:

Sandberg, of course, would have wide local appeal, but Gonzalez would bring more Major League experience. Gonzalez also has a long-standing personal relationship with Cubs GM Jim Hendry.

Chicago Cubs manager Lou Piniella has officially announced his retirement, effective at the end of this season. Piniella, who has been managing in the Major Leagues since 1988, made his intentions known with a statement on Tuesday via a release issued by the team.

Piniella said he made the announcement now because it is “what’s best for this organization in the long run,” adding, “It gives [Cubs GM] Jim Hendry ample time to find the next manager and he doesn’t need to do so in secrecy.”

The 67-year old took over as Cubs manger following a season away from the game and promptly led them to NL Central division titles in both 2007 and 2008, the latter of which earned him NL Manager of the Year honors. However, both years ended with disappointing sweeps in the Division Series. In 2009, the Cubs finished 83-78, good for second in the Central.

This season, the last year on his contract, has been a rough one for Chicago and the fiery, often combative Piniella, as they currently sit 10.5 games out of first with a 42-52 record.