(Image source: Chicago Tribune)

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BY BRAD GALBREATH

ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY

Let’s just call it “Extreme Makeover: The Cubs Edition.” On Wednesday, Cubbies president Theo Epstein fired manager Mike Quade. Then, he released this statement, which ruled out a popular name to take the spot.

“’We’re looking for someone with whom and around whom we can build a foundation for sustained success…and he must have managerial or coaching experience at the major league level.’ Now Cubs legend Ryne Sandberg has tremendous appeal with fans….But he hasn’t managed or coached beyond Triple-A, so Epstein’s preference for experience applies to him too.”

This week, Cubs fans were thrown a curveball.  Check this headline.

“Ryne Sandberg reportedly a Cardinals managerial candidate.”

What? A Cubbie donning the birds on the bat? A reporter for KSDK in St. Louis responds.

“That's probably the last thing that Cardinal fans wants to hear. But several publications are saying that Hall of Famer and former second baseman for the Cubs Ryne Sandberg will interview for the Cardinals job.”

If there’s a storm brewing in the Windy City, it isn’t coming from the Chicago Sun-Times, which says, "Trust Theo."

“He is showing that he is fully aware that the handling of the most-cursed team in baseball requires a kind of management delicacy that transcends mere wheeling-and-dealing and talent selection.”

Fox Sports writer Greg Couch is also on board with passing on Ryno, pointing to the Cubs' curse.

“As a Chicagoan who used to drop everything to watch every time Sandberg came to bat, let me say this: Epstein did the right thing. The Cubs need to clean house entirely. Not just from the present. The Cubs also need a divorce from their past. The losing was still considered lovable when Sandberg was doing it.”

ESPN is reporting the Cubs want to talk with Phillies’ bench coach Pete Mackanin, former Brewers manager Dale Sveum, and Rangers’ pitching coach Mike Maddux.

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