This surprises me and doesn't surprise me at the same time if that is possible.
According to an article in a San Francisco paper, Billy Beane and Macha had had a poor working relationship for awhile. Macha was not what you'd call a "player's manager". He really didn't have much of a relationship with the players at all to be honest from what I've read.
Macha had a nice little run in Oakland and I think when Beane watched the team go down in flames in the ALCS he needed someone to hang. Anyone that has read "Moneyball" knows that Beane is not exactly the calmest guy. His temper can get the best of him, remember, he basically fired Macha after last year but brought him back anyway. I think he is just finishing the job he wanted to do.
Ron Washington is easily the front runner for the job. He's been interviewed countless times by other teams and I think Beane will finally give him a shot. If Ron does get the job we could see a slight change in the A's. Ron likes the running game. I don't see the A's becoming the 80's Cardinals but they could maybe do some more hit and runs and maybe set some guys in motion on the bases.
Then again, Beane could plant his foot in Washington's *** and tell him "if you run your'e fired."
Ken Rosenthal has mentioned Orel Hershiser, Rockies bench coach Jamie Quirk, Yankees third base coach Larry Bowa and A's bench coach Bob Geren as other guys Beane will look at...
I think the change is for the better. I've never liked how Macha used the bullpen (he's overworked Duch for 2 years and he is too quick with the hook with the starters) or how he has managed injured players (he hung Bobby Crosby out to dry this year when it was plain as day for weeks that he was not right).
A fresh approach will be good.
