In a surprising cross-sport development, multiple sources report that the Arizona Cardinals are expected to request permission from the Tampa Bay Rays to interview Jonathan Gannon—currently serving as the Rays’ manager—for their open head coaching position.
The news, first reported earlier today by ESPN’s Shams Charania and Tim MacMahon, and later confirmed by MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, suggests that the Cardinals are considering an unconventional move as part of a broader search for leadership amid an ongoing rebuild.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the Cardinals’ front office has been “conducting an active and wide-ranging search” for their next head coach after parting ways with their previous staff earlier this month. Gannon’s name reportedly emerged in internal discussions due to his reputation as a strong communicator and strategic thinker—qualities the franchise is said to be prioritizing.
While Gannon is currently managing in Major League Baseball, he previously served as the Cardinals’ head coach in the NFL from 2023 to 2024 before abruptly resigning to pursue a role in professional baseball—an unprecedented transition that drew national attention at the time. His brief but impactful tenure in Arizona left a lasting impression on some within the organization, according to league insiders.
The Tampa Bay Rays have yet to comment officially on whether they will grant the Cardinals permission to speak with Gannon.
This is a developing story. More details to follow as they become available.
