In the Heart of America, the St. Louis Cardinals' nascent managerial search continues, and Derrick Goold's got all the juicy details:

The Cardinals had scheduled interviews for six candidates to replace manager Tony La Russa, who retired a week ago after 16 seasons with the club. Three interviews were conducted late last week, and the remaining three were scheduled to be conducted this week, starting as early as today, a team official confirmed.

Hall of Fame second baseman Ryne Sandberg is expected to interview for the position this week. Cards third base coach Jose Oquendo has yet to have his formal interview for the position. Former Boston Red Sox manager Terry Francona also has been identified and the list could expand beyond the six set for interviews.

According to WEEI, Francona was actually set for a Tuesday interview with the Cardinals.

According to Goold, last week the Cardinals "interviewed three candidates with Cards ties: Chris Maloney, the Class AAA Memphis manager; Joe McEwing, a Cardinals draft pick who is the third base coach for the Chicago White Sox; and Mike Matheny, a Cardinals' Gold Glove-winning catcher who has served as a special assistant in the front office."

You have to pull for Francona or Sandberg, simply for the dramatic possibilities. Also, Joe McEwing. Because he was a scrappy gamer.