Ryne Sandberg replacing Lou Piniella in Cubs' dugout next year?

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It's been rumored for some time that former Chicago Cubs second baseman Ryne Sandberg could take over for Lou Piniella next season as the manager for the North Siders.

But the beef on Sandberg was that he had no managerial experience. That complaint can't be made now that he's led the Cubs' Double-A Tennessee Smokies into the playoffs. And the rumor is now back that he'll be replacing Piniella soon enough, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Sandberg has had a nice run with Tennessee this year, and Piniella has had a frustrating year with the big league club, but Sandberg taking over next year is highly unlikely. Perhaps after Piniella's contract runs out after next year. I think it is more likely that Sandberg joins the big league staff next season, though that might be awkward with Alan Trammell already serving as bench coach and another possible eventual replacement for Piniella.

In any event, Piniella could stay the manager for several more years if it were up to me.