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I'm intrigued by the upcoming hire of a new Nationals bench coach by Davey Johnson. Inasmuch as it's already been decided that Bo Porter will remain as third base coach, I have to wonder what criteria will be used to select a new dugout sidekick for Johnson.
Could it be someone already on the staff? Trent Jewett took over as first base coach after the departure of Dan Radison, and he has extensive minor league managerial experience. He's a candidate, as is Randy Knorr, who has also served multiple terms as a minor league skipper.
What about an ex-big league manager currently on the sidelines? Bobby Valentine comes to mind, though he probably makes more money doing TV than a big league coach earns. Still, if he has designs on managing again in the big leagues, getting back in the saddle on someone's coaching staff would get him up to speed on every other club in the National League pretty fast. Also, Valentine has been one of Johnson's coaches three other times in the past.
What of that aspect, having previously coached for Johnson? Sam Perlozzo, currently a Phillies coach, was one of Johnson's lieutenants for five different seasons. Rick Down served Johnson four times in the past, and our MASN colleague Ray Knight coached for Johnson three times in the 1990s. Does Johnson necessarily want someone who knows him and his tendencies that well?
What may seem insignificant to some is actually a fairly important hire this winter. I'm supposing that Johnson has the last word on this issue, and I'm prepared to be surprised by his choice.
