The man most responsible for defeating the A's in the 1988 World Series could become their next manager: The A's have asked for and received permission to speak to Texas pitching coach Orel Hershiser about the job. "I want to work with people who have high aspirations,'' Hershiser said in confirming the A's interest. "This (interview process) is a normal part of life in baseball -- these opportunities come up from time to time. But I'm still excited about the opportunity to be the Rangers' pitching coach.''