Evaluating the 4 strongest St. Louis Cardinals managerial candidates

Mike Shildt (8) out of the game during the ninth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
Mike Shildt (8) out of the game during the ninth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
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Jose Oquendo (11) waves to fans prior to a game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
Jose Oquendo (11) waves to fans prior to a game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Jose Oquendo

The 58-year-old Jose Oquendo has the extensive experience throughout the Cardinal organization which would make him an appealing candidate. He is also a highly respected coach and instructor.

Qquendo has been with the Cardinals organization in 1985. First as a popular utility player, then later as a minor league coach, manager, and finally a third base coach.

Oquendo was long thought to be the heir apparent to Tony La Russa. But when La Russa retired after the 2011 season, Mike Matheny was named manager. Nevertheless, Oquendo stayed on as third base coach until 2015. He eventually joined the front office as an assistant to the General Manager and became an infield instructor for minor league players in the Cardinals Jupiter. Florida facility.

Now, it is now generally believed the Cardinals would look toward someone currently on the big league coaching staff. Also, it’s believed Oquendo may not be interested in returning to the Cardinals dugout and would prefer to stay in Florida as a minor league instructor.

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