According to a report in theSt. Louis Post-Dispatch, Tony La Russa is “speeding to a conclusion” regarding a decision whether to return as Cardinals manager.
Though La Russa said he hasn’t yet discussed a contract yet with team chairman Bill DeWitt Jr, a formal announcement is expected this week. If La Russa decides to return for 2010, pitching coach Dave Duncan is also expected to be back. It would be their 15th season with the organization.
“I’m coming to an understanding of what I’m doing and intend to get it settled one way or the other shortly.”
“I don’t want to make any statements about being close to coming back,” deferred La Russa, who has steered eight teams to the postseason since being named the only manager under the team’s current ownership. “You either do (come back) or you don’t. I’ve been checking the fire in my gut. It’s one way or the other.”