Should Walt Weiss be on Oakland A’s managerial radar?

There has not been much news about the Oakland A’s managerial search. Chances are, the A’s will look within the organization to replace Bob Melvin, with bench coach Ryan Christenson the likely favorite. However, there have been rumors that Ron Washington could be a candidate due to his familiarity with the organization as a whole, as well as how he is loved by the front office.

But there is another external candidate that might be worth considering. Walt Weiss, the former A’s infielder and Rockies manager, is currently the bench coach on the Braves, a position he has held since 2017.

Walt Weiss may be worth considering as Oakland A’s manager

Weiss did not exactly have much success in Colorado. He posted a 283-365 record over his four seasons, failing to finish above .500 in any of those years. The Rockies’ best finish in that time was third place in 2016, a year in which they were 12 games under .500.

But Weiss does have a connection to the A’s. He was a solid part of their run in the late 1980s and into the 1990s, a light hitting shortstop with an excellent glove. The 1988 AL Rookie of the Year, he produced a .246/.316/.307 batting line in his 1831 plate appearances for the A’s, numbers in line with middle infielders at the time.

It is also worth noting that Weiss has experience in helping to develop younger players. He was the Rockies manager during the rookies seasons for both Nolan Arenado and Trevor Story, amongst other youngsters on those Colorado teams.

That ability to develop younger players will be key. The A’s are likely facing a teardown of their roster, entering what may be a lengthy rebuilding process. Having someone that can get the most out of those younger players will make a major difference in the success of the rebuild.

Walt Weiss has not generated much interest as a managerial candidate. However, the Oakland A’s may want to consider him for their opening.