Current manager of the Chicago Cubs’ Triple-A affiliate, Ryne Sandberg, is on the Toronto Blue Jay’s long list of candidates to replace Cito Gaston, according to FOXSports’ Jon Paul Morosi.

Candidates on the list could include Don Baylor, Blue Jays third base coach Brian Butterfield and Yankees third base coach Rob Thomson. Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com heard that Mets scout Bob Melvin & Nationals’ coach Pat Listach as well as former M’s skipper Don Wakamatsu could be in line for the Toronto job.

Sandberg has previously lobbied for the Chicago Cubs managerial opening, and he could be the sentimental favorite given his Hall of Fame performance during his playing days with the Cubs. However, the Cubs may go with a more experienced manager to take over the high-profile position.

Sandberg, 50, was named manager of the Iowa Cubs in December 2009. He previously managed the Class-A Peoria Chiefs and Double-A Tennessee Smokies.

Gaston will be retiring after the season. He served two stints and 12 seasons of being the manager of the Blue Jays.