Now that incumbent Cubs’ manager Lou Piniella has announced his retirement and will step down after the season, USA Today’s Mike Dodd, Bob Nightengale and Jorge L. Ortiz list out the possible successors to managerial throne for the North Side.

Ryne Sandberg

The Ricketts family loves the guy. The fans want Sandberg. He’s managing right now at Triple-A Iowa. He’s told the Des Moines Resiter that the Cubs job would be a “a dream come true for me”.

Joe Torre

Torre has made it no secret that he’s tired of the Dodger’s divorce drama and he’s interested at other positions when his contract expires after the season. He would be a media darling in the city.

Tony La Russa

His contract expires after this season with the St. Louis Cardinals. USA Today wonders, “Would he go to the Cubs with an open checkbook, or out of deep friendship to Jerry Reinsdorf, stay away from the White Sox’s rival?”

Bobby Valentine

He has the big name, would love the gig and is known for motivating underachieving teams, but it would be a longshot.