By Fitzgerald Cecilio

Denver, CO

The Colorado Rockies will interview one of their players -- former American League Most Valuable Player Jason Giambi -- for the vacant managerial job.

The 41-year-old Giambi has played three-plus seasons with the Rockies but believed to be willing to retire if hired as manager to replace Jim Tracy, who stepped down following the team's franchise-worst 64-98 record this season.

The Denver Post reported that the timing of the interview has not been set. The newspaper also reported that Triple-A Colorado Springs manager Stu Cole will interview for a coaching staff spot, but not the manager's job.

The Rockies have not commented on the report.

Last week, the team interviewed Tom Runnells, who served as bench coach during Tracy's full tenure from May 2009 through last season. The team has not interviewed candidates from outside the organization.

In the past years, Giambi has been a trusted mentor of young hitters and pitchers, as well as a sounding board for Tracy and front-office officials.

Giambi has hit .248 with 22 home runs and 86 RBIs as a backup first baseman and pinch-hitter in Colorado.

In 2012, he was limited to 60 games, first missing time while battling viral syndrome, and at the end due to a hernia that required surgery. He finished the year with a .225 batting average, one home run and eight RBIs.

Giambi was AL MVP with the Athletics in 2000. Over 18 seasons, Giambi has hit .280 with 429 home runs and 1,405 RBIs.

 

 

 

Rockies to Interview Jason Giambi for Managerial Post