Report: Padres to interview Ron Gardenhire

The San Diego Padres are seeking a seasoned manager to take the reins next season, as they continue to screen potential candidates to succeed interim skipper Pat Murphy.

Former 2010 American League Manager of the Year Ron Gardenhire will interview for the vacancy, The San Diego Union-Tribune's Dennis Lin reports.

"We're betting on a person, we're betting on a guy we feel like can be a leader," Padres general manager A.J. Preller said. "Someone who can bring more on the relationship and culture side, more on the day-to-day leadership. The clubhouse, the communication, I think that's going to be the biggest thing."

Gardenhire, 57, guided the Minnesota Twins to six American League Central titles over his 13-year tenure, and compiled a 1,068-1,039 record (.507 winning percentage) over his 2,107 games at the helm.

The Washington Nationals, who fired manager Matt Williams at the conclusion of the regular season, are also on Gardenhire's radar, according to his agent.