Good luck, Tito. I think this is the right decision for both sides. Tito is a terrific manager but, apparently, couldn't control the clubhouse and couldn't integrate the kids. Every managers has a life cycle, even Joe Torre. This is the right time for him to go, and this is the right time to make significant changes in the roster for next year. The "me-me-me" crowd that is now leaking in the press is not a reflection on Tito but on Theo. I think it is also the right time for Theo to go.

As for who would be follow Tito, I assume it won't be someone currently in the organization. The timing of it all is such that I'm sure Theo would have wanted John Farrell but the organization let him go to Toronto last year. Can't see them going in the Bobby V direction and Demarlo Hale he may be tied too closely to Tito to be the choice.

Food for thought. A few names for consideration:

1. (internal candidate #1) Demarlo Hale (he's a Tito guy)
2. (internal candidate #2) Tim Bogar (he's perceived to be a Theo guy, not a Tito guy; at least he won't be at third base anymore)
3. (internal candidate #3) Ron Johnson (he's also perceived to be a Theo guy)
4. (keep your friends close and your enemies closer) Dave Martinez, Tampa's bench coach
5. (slam dunk success but can he be surgically removed from Ozzie Guillen) Joey Cora, Florida's new bench coach
6. (big names, not happening) Ryne Sandberg, Bobby Valentine