Friday, September 18, 1998 BY SCOTT MacGREGOR
A source in Baltimore says Reds General Manager Jim Bowden will interview for the Orioles general manager's job early next week.
Bowden is considered a leading candidate for the position, which will be vacant at the end of the season. Orioles GM Pat Gillick has notified owner Peter Angelos he will not return next season.
Bowden's chief competition is thought to be Dan O'Dowd, director of baseball operations for the Cleveland Indians, and Frank Wren, assistant general manager of the Florida Marlins. Former Dodgers GM Fred Claire, former Yankees GM Bob Watson and Braves assistant Dean Taylor are believed to be candidates.
Bowden, who could not be reached for comment Thursday, was the first candidate whom the Orioles sought permission to interview, and the 37-year old Reds boss has strong support in the Baltimore organization from executive Syd Thrift, who was general manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates when he hired Bowden for his first job in 1984. Thrift's son, Jim, is minor-league offensive coordinator in the Reds' organization.
Bowden said Wednesday he wants to stay with the Reds, but won't seek a contract extension until Marge Schott's situation is settled. Bowden has one year left on his Reds contract but has the blessing of managing executive John Allen to leave for a better opportunity.
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