Sandberg? Sutcliffe? Grace? Maddux?
As the Cubs search for a new manager (again), and fans begin to project who would make good coaches in the new regime, something continues to baffle me: Why do fans continue to throw out the names of former Cubs' favorites as prospective coaches?
I mean, come on, who doesn't love Ryno? The Red Barron? Gracie? Sarge? Right? They are Cub icons, and all-of-them, fan favorites. However, it seems borderline ridiculous, or at least yet-to-be-justified to be throwing these guys names out there as coaches for the new regime. What is it that will make Ryne Sandberg a great coach? What is it that will make Greg Maddux a great coach?
I can't say what it is that makes a good coach, but I think that we all agree that from the manager on down, what the Cubs need are excellent, hungry, devoted teachers of the game. We've all complained, and all agree, no-matter-our-differences, that the Cubs' coaches as of late have plain-sucked. It showed on the field everday. The best teachers of the game -- or the best teachers in general, in life -- are not necessarily the Hall of Famers or best players. That is one thing I have always observed about baseball--or any sport for that matter--it's usually the mediocre former players or no-namers that make the best managers and coaches. Excelling as a coach utilizes a different set of skills than succeeding as a player.
So, do people really want these former stars to be coaching our players? I just want to know what other people seem to suggest: What is it that will make Ryne Sanberg a great coach? Maddux? Grace? Me, personally, I always feel more comfortable with the manager making the choice. I mean, it's not a popularity contest.
What does it take to be a great coach? Who are the best candidates? Why would former star players make good coaches?
Poll
Best former Cub for Coach?
Ryne Sanberg (5 votes)
Mark Grace (1 vote)
Andre Dawson (3 votes)
Jody Davis (3 votes)
Greg Maddux (6 votes)
18 total votes




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