SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — The Los Angeles Angels have hired Ron Washington, 71, who last coached 10 years ago, as their new manager.
Washington signed a two-year contract to replace Phil Nevin as the club’s new manager.
Washington had a two-hour meeting with Angels GM Perry Minasian on Tuesday, along with owner Arte Moreno, then went to dinner at a steakhouse in Scottsdale with Minasian on Tuesday night.
Washington, who recently signed a three-year contract extension with Atlanta as their third base coach, where he has been the last seven seasons, led the Texas Rangers to back-to-back World Series appearances in 2010-11.
He resigned after eight years with Rangers in September 2014 for personal reasons. He remains the most successful manager in franchise history, having led the Rangers to a first or second place finish in six straight seasons.
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“I am honored to have the opportunity to work with him,” Atlanta GM Alex Anthopoulos said. “He’s everything you could want. He deserves the opportunity. He’s excited, and obviously I’m excited for him.”
“It’s a huge loss for us. And I emphasize that in capital letters, in bold and italics, all of it. A huge, huge void. I spent six years with him, and I can’t imagine ever being around another guy like him for the rest of my career. …
“The presence, the intellect, the respect, the work ethic, the integrity, the ability to lead is off the charts. I mean, that guy walks into the room, that’s it. He’s got it. He’s special. I’ve been in baseball since 2000. And I’ve never been around someone like This is from before.
Washington, the first Black manager hired since 2020, plans to hire a diverse staff and is expected to hire Chili Davis as hitting coach, Torrey Hunter as first base coach, Eric Young Sr. at third, Clint Hurdle as bench coach and Ryan Goins. As an infield coach.
Washington’s 664 career victories rank eighth among active managers.
The Angels’ hiring leaves the San Diego Padres, Milwaukee Brewers and Houston Astros with the remaining managerial jobs.
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