Braves rumors: Bud Black could take manager's job from Fredi Gonzalez

The likely successor for the Atlanta Braves' manager's job is already being discussed, and Fredi Gonzalez hasn't even been fired yet. According to Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY Sports, the likely successor is Bud Black.

Black, who last managed for the San Diego Padres in 2015, is currently working for the Los Angeles Angels as a special assistant to Billy Eppler. Black was relieved of duties from the Padres 55 games into the 2015 season in which the team went 32-33. Prior to that, Black had managed the Padres for eight seasons, none of which did they qualify for the postseason.

While the debate rages in Atlanta whether #Braves should fire Fredi Gonzalez, Buddy Black is the heavy favorite to be their manager in 2017.

— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) May 4, 2016

Black was also believed to be in the running for the Washington Nationals' managerial job. After a report surfaced that Black had been offered only $1.6 million for a one year contract, the deal fell through and Dusty Baker was hired instead.

The Boston Red Sox's Torey Lovullo served as interim manager while John Farrell took medical leave last season. Both he and Brian Butterfield could make suitable managerial candidates if given the opportunity.

Ron Gardnehire is also believed to be wanting another shot at managing. He hasn't managed since 2014, when the Minnesota Twins replaced him with Paul Molitor.

After being relieved of duties by the Seattle Mariners this past offseason, Lloyd McClendon could also be looking for a suitable employer.

Of course, an interim manager is another option, as poaching a person from a team mid-season could be trickier than going through a more rigorous interview process in the offseason.  An interim manager could be a promotion from within, though it's hard to imagine the hitting coach, Kevin Seitzer, earning a promotion while the Braves are struggling so much at the plate.