Reading through Ben Maller's snipits and learned that the Cubs front office seemed to close any doors that Pinella opened for Elia's return to the Cubs organization.

The story seems to indicate that the move is quite final stating that Elia has taken a position with the Devil Rays as a scout.

http://www.benmaller.com/archives/2006/december/07-elia_not_hired_by_cubs_because_of_famous_rant.htm l

I was wondering how much liberty a new manager had over their staff - this seems to indicate that the leash must be much shorter than I realized. From what I gather Elia and Pinella have worked well together in the past and he'd been looking forward to having him on his staff.

It's been a few years since the Baker signing and my memories a bit shot - did he have similar problems getting coaches approved?