Pirates Close to Naming Hurdle as New Manager

Ken Rosenthal had this to say via tweet regarding the Pirates search for a new manager:

"#Pirates have increased efforts to hire Hurdle. One says, "moving forward at a rapid pace."

Does it really matter who manages the Pirates?  They haven't had a winning season since they decided the smart move was re-signing Andy Van Slyke instead of Barry Bonds.  They're not going to win anyway, right? 

Ok.  That was probably a little harsh.  There is a light at the end of the tunnel.  That light is still pretty far off, but there is some reason for a little bit of optimism.  Neil Walker, Andrew McCutchen, and Pedro Alvarez all took steps forward this season, and they're poised to take the next step in 2011.  That said, the cupboard is pretty bare when it comes to young pitching.  Brad Lincoln came up this season, but struggled during his 11 appearance stint with the club.  Plus, he was a first round pick in 2006, and just made it to the majors this year.  2010, his rookie season, was his age-25 season.  Considering he didn't perform well last season, that doesn't bode well for his future.  Paul Maholm and Zach Duke are nice, but they've been around for a while now.  Plus, they're back of the rotation guys that wouldn't make the cut on most contenders.  

All things considered, Clint Hurdle isn't such a bad guy to have as your manager.  He's not the smartest guy in the world, but he's not the dumbest either--not by a long shot.  For his career, he's 534-625 (.461 winning percentage), and led the Rockies' improbable run to the World Series in 2007.