Courtesy Oakland A's

Don Wakamatsu

SEATTLE – KING 5 Sports has learned from sources close to the Mariners that A's bench coach Don Wakamatsu is the front runner to be the next manager of the Mariners. The only thing left is approval from the owners in Japan, and that could come shortly.

Wakamatsu was Oakland's bench coach in 2008. Prior to that, he spent 5 years with the Rangers as bench coach and third base coach.

He also worked in the Angels' minor league organization and was a minor league manager.

He is well-acquainted with the American League West.