Lloyd McClendon: Mariners interview Charlie Montoyo

The twist comes as Servais is reported to be a candidate to fill the Padres’ managerial vacancy. He is considered one of the brightest minds in baseball and was thought to be a managerial candidate throughout his playing career, though many believed he would eventually end up leading the Red Sox. Varitek, who retired before the 2012 season, has been a special assistant to the Red Sox general manager and a spring-training instructor. Now, at 43, the former catcher and team captain is giving it consideration.

Varitek was the Mariners’ first-round pick (14th overall) in 1994.

In a lopsided deal, Red Sox GM Dan Duquette obtained Varitek and righthander Derek Lowe for unsuccessful closer Heathcliff Slocumb.

Former Red Sox catcher and current special assistant to the general manager Jason Varitek is not only a candidate to be the Mariners next manager, but has already had an interview for the position according to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports.

Varitek has no managerial experience at any level since retiring in 2011, but that may not dissuade teams from considering him for their vacant positions. After meeting last month with Varitek and fellow special assistant Pedro Martinez, Dombrowski expressed an interest in tapping into the knowledge of both former players.

On Monday, Ken Davidoff of the New York Post reported that Rays third-base coach Charlie Montoyo had interviewed for the job. Varitek played 15 seasons for the Red Sox, catching four no-hitters, making three All-Star teams and winning two World Series. A decision is not expected to come until after the World Series. The Mariners have also fired several minor-league coaches. He also did a few amateur scouting and spent time with the major league team during the season.

If Varitek does not land with Seattle, he would remain with the Red Sox.

Varitek lives in Suwanee, Ga., with his wife and daughter.