Terry Francona may be in line to replace Mike Scioscia as manager of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim . . . if Jim Bowden is to be believed.
According to the Toronto Sun, Bowden -- the former general manager of the Reds and Nationals -- said on ESPN Radio that the firing of hitting coach Mickey Hatcher was a message to Scioscia, who has managed the Angels since 2000, that his job isn't secure. The team won the World Series under Scioscia in 2002, and took five A.L. West titles in the six seasons from 2004-09. But the Angels missed the playoffs in the last two seasons and, despite the high-price acquisitions of free agents Albert Pujols and C.J. Wilson this past offseason, has stumbled to a 17-21 start this year.
"The bullet-proof vest of Mike Scioscia is off," Bowden said, "and if this team doesn't turn it around by August don't be surprised if Terry Francona . . . is managing the Angels."