It’s a Maddon, Maddon, Maddon, Maddon World

If the Kansas City Royals can be 10-1 in the 2014 postseason with Ned Yost managing, imagine what the Chicago Cubs could do with Joe Maddon managing them. OK, so that sentence makes no sense (even less than usual, which isn’t easy to do). The reality is Maddon departed the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday of his own volition thanks to an escape clause in his contract. Subsequently, some Cubs fans determined the Cubs would be the best fit for Maddon. Very thoughtful of them. And, yes, the Cubs do have a manager under contract in Rick Renteria.

Abigail Ratchford. Credit: Brian B. Hayes

* Speaking of Maddon, the possibility exists he could go to Los Angeles to manage the Dodgers. He would be reunited with Andrew Friedman, who recently left Tampa Bay to become Dodgers president. And, yes, the Dodgers do have a manager under contract in Don Mattingly. They also have Clayton Kershaw, who is an overwhelming choice for National League Cy Young Award. And several other standout players, both veteran and young. Not to mention an ownership that has shown a willingness to take on a hefty payroll. But he could lead the Cubs to the World Series for the first time since 1945 and win a World Series for the first time since 1908. Maybe such a challenge would sway Madden. On the other hand, the Dodgers last were in the postseason in 2014 (otherwise known as this season).

* Still speaking of Maddon, if he wants to field a winner in Chicago, he seemingly would have a better opportunity with the White Sox. They have an elite pitcher in Chris Sale and the prohibitive favorite for American League Rookie of the Year in Jose Abreu. Plus Maddon has familiarity with AL teams. Then again, he may want the challenge of being a National League manager. And, yes, the Sox do have a manager under contract in Robin Ventura.

* And speaking some more of Maddon, why would a guy who has enjoyed success want to go to a losing team? Good managers such as Maddon who are on the open market can command a premium in terms of salary. He also likely will have a number of opportunities. Remember Lou Piniella came to the Cubs with the dream of being a World Series winner? And how did that turn out? In case anyone has forgotten, not well.

* Speaking of the Royals (we were at the very beginning of today’s effort), they defeated the Giants 3-2 Friday night in San Francisco to take s 2-1 lead in the World Series. Feel free to debate whether Yost’s managing is the reason K.C. is two victories away from its first title since 1985. Or whether the reason for the Royals’ success is timely hitting, good defense and a lights-out bullpen.

* Speaking of light out, the Chicago Bulls ended their preseason schedule with a 113-112 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in St. Louis. Derrick Rose led the Bulls with 23 points (12-of-23 shooting from the field, including 3-of-7 three-points) and tied for team high in minutes played (32) with center Joakim Noah, who had nine offensive rebounds among his overall 17. Pau Gasol had four of the Bulls’ five blocked shots and seven of their 18 turnovers. Aaron Brooks had 13 points in 16 minutes off the Bulls bench. Make of all that whatever you want.

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