Joe Girardi, considered a leading candidate for the Chicago Cubs' managing job, interviewed for the position on Monday.
The Florida Marlins fired Girardi last week. Girardi guided them to a 78-84 record and kept them in contention for a playoff spot until late September despite having the majors' youngest team and lowest payroll.
The Cubs chose not to bring back manager Dusty Baker when his contract expired after going 66-96.
Known for his gritty play and catching skills, Girardi began his career with the Cubs in 1989 and spent his first four seasons with the team. He returned for three more years in 2000 and made the all-star team that season. His teammates in that second stretch included current Cubs pitchers Mark Prior, Kerry Wood and Carlos Zambrano.
General manager Jim Hendry, who was not available for comment, plans to interview two internal candidates this week: triple-A manager Mike Quade and double-A manager Pat Listach.
