Cubs add Acta, Renteria to list of candidates

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Chicago • While waiting for Joe Girardi to decide his future with the Yankees, the Chicago Cubs have officially expanded their search for a new manager.

According to a source familiar with the Cubs' search, former Nationals and Indians manager Manny Acta and Padres bench coach Rick Renteria have surfaced as candidates. They join A.J. Hinch, the Padres' assistant general manager and former Diamondbacks manager.

The status of those candidates, however, may hinge on whether Girardi elects to stay with the Yankees or pursue other opportunities, such as the Cubs job. Published reports out of New York on Monday stated that the Yankees will give Girardi as much time as he needs to make a decision.

Girardi is under contract through Oct. 31 and hasn't been allowed permission to speak directly to other teams, including the Cubs.

Cubs President Theo Epstein indicated he will embark on a thorough process that could last until the general managers meetings starting Nov. 11 in Florida.

Acta and Renteria fit Epstein's requirements as leaders who have worked with young players.

Acta, 44, has managed the Nationals (2007-09) and Indians (2010-12) but was fired from both jobs. Renteria, 51, has served as the Padres' bench coach for two seasons.