It is no secret that Rob Manfred is incredibly unpopular. The MLB commissioner may have a lower approval rating than syphilis, leprosy, and my writing skills, but he still remains in his role. It is a sad state of affairs when people have to wonder if the person in charge of Major League Baseball even enjoys the game he is in charge of.
Sadly, we are stuck with Manfred for at least three more seasons. His current contract runs through 2024, leaving the rest of us to mark off the days on the calendar to when the sport may finally be free. Between his inane rule changes, refusal to market the players, and inability to do anything that moves the game forward, we can only hope this contract will be his last.
Three options to replace Rob Manfred as MLB commissioner
But this also means that a proper replacement needs to be found for Manfred. Hopefully, this one will actually have the best interests of the game at heart, and not be so insecure that he forces the network to be rid of a popular reporter for mildly criticizing him. But we may be asking far too much from a sport that cannot get out of its own way more often than not.
Rob Manfred cannot leave his role soon enough. Let us take a look at three potential options to replace him as MLB commissioner.
Theo Epstein
If Rob Manfred is looking at an heir apparent, it may be Theo Epstein.
Epstein is certainly known to both the owners and players. He served in various front office roles with the Red Sox and Cubs, helping break the curses of both franchises. While Manfred may not have much respect from the fans or the players, the same cannot be said for the former executive.
It did not take long for Epstein to find work when he left the Cubs. He is working in the Commissioner’s Office in a “special assistant” role, as nebulous as that description may be. It is very possible that his job duties involve being ready to take over while learning the job from Manfred.
He would also bring a respect to the office that has not been there in years. Manfred has become so reviled by fans and segments of the players that it is questionable as to whether or not the role carries the gravitas it used to. Epstein would restore that while being young enough to actually connect with the fanbase that the league wants to attract.
Theo Epstein may be the favorite to take over for Rob Manfred as MLB commissioner someday. He may be being groomed for the position as this is typed.