Dodgers' George Lombard Reportedly Interviews for Tigers' Manager Job

The Detroit Tigers have interviewed Los Angeles Dodgers first base coach George Lombard as part of their search for a new manager, according to MLB.com's Jason Beck.

Lombard joined the Dodgers' coaching staff ahead of the 2016 season. He spent six seasons in MLB as a player and appeared in 72 games for the Tigers in 2002.

The Tigers are rebuilding. Following a 47-win season in 2019, Detroit finished last in the American League Central at 23-35 this year.

The franchise is well suited to make someone a first-time MLB manager. Lombard's coaching experience makes him a good candidate to lead a roster that will be counting on contributions from younger players.

The 45-year-old worked in a variety of roles within the Boston Red Sox's and Atlanta Braves' minor league organizations.

The Los Angeles Times' Jorge Castillo noted he received an interview with the Pittsburgh Pirates last offseason before they ultimately hired Derek Shelton.

While recognizing Lombard's body of work, the Detroit Free Press' Evan Petzold wondered whether his inexperience makes him too much of a risk. Nobody would expect Lombard to immediately deliver wins, but the Tigers can ill afford to hire a manager who takes their player development backward.

Between the Pirates' interest in him in 2019 and the Tigers' interest now, it may only be a matter of time before Lombard leaves the Dodgers for a promotion.