Is Fredi Ready For Wrigley?

I could live happily with Fredi Gonzalez as the next Cubs manager.

He thrive for four years with the always frugal Florida Marlins (276-279), and has both minor and major league coaching experience.

Gonzalez was also mentored by one of the best skippers of all time, Bobby Cox, during his four seasons as third base coach in Atlanta (2003-06).

The resume as a whole isn’t breathtaking, but Gonzalez appears to have several standout qualities the Cubs are looking for in its next field general.

Fredi’s successfully developed prospects, disciplined star players and has the ability to communicate effectively with Latin players. Check, check & check.

Similar to Eric Wedge, who was interviewed for the position last Thursday, Gonzalez has a long history with Cubs GM Jim Hendry, dating three decades, including working together for the Marlins organization.

Side stepping Ryno won’t be easy for Hendry. Not with Sandberg a Cubs legend and by far the fan’s popular choice.

But an aggressive manager like Fredi could quickly turn the Cubs’ fortunes around, and save Hendry’s job in the process, which alone is certain to keep Gonzalez a leading candidate.

Provided a talented young core and one of the major’s highest payrolls, it’s up to Hendry to decide if now is the right time for ‘Fredi Time’.