Dodgers Haven’t Contacted All Candidates

Another day went by without the Dodgers contacting any of their former players about becoming the next manager. Contrary to published reports, the Dodgers have not asked the Texas Rangers for permission to speak to pitching coach Orel Hershiser.

General Manager Paul DePodesta spent the day gathering additional background information on the five candidates he has interviewed, none of whom have been eliminated from consideration. One or more additional candidates could still be interviewed.

Terry Collins is considered the leading candidate, but owner Frank McCourt wants to meet with more than one finalist. Two Dodger sources said San Francisco bench coach Ron Wotus had a strong interview.

Wotus has worked under two successful managers -- Dusty Baker and Felipe Alou -- and is very familiar with the National League West.

“I’m more comfortable in the NL, period,” he said before he was interviewed. “The Dodgers are like the Giants in that they are built to win now. Their focus is to win the division. The Dodgers are a premier organization.”

-- Steve Henson