The Los Angeles Angels are taking a bold step in their attempts to revitalize their struggling franchise by hiring Kurt Suzuki as their new manager, as reported by ESPN on Tuesday. This decision marks a significant shift for the team, as Suzuki, a seasoned major league catcher, steps into a managerial role despite having no previous professional coaching experience. The Angels are currently facing the longest playoff drought in Major League Baseball, making this hire particularly crucial for the team's future.
Kurt Suzuki, now 42, boasts an impressive 16-year career in the majors, having played for five different franchises. Notably, he was part of the Washington Nationals team that clinched the 2019 World Series. In recent years, Suzuki has served as a special assistant to Angels general manager Perry Minasian, where he has gained insight into the team's operations and needs.
In the search for a new manager to replace Ron Washington, who was sidelined for nearly half of the 2025 season due to quadruple bypass surgery, the Angels considered several former stars. Notable candidates included Albert Pujols and Torii Hunter. However, the team ultimately decided on Suzuki, who now becomes the fifth manager for the Angels since the departure of Mike Scioscia in 2018. Previous managers include Brad Ausmus, Joe Maddon, Phil Nevin, and Washington.
As Suzuki takes the helm, he inherits a roster filled with offensive talent but grappling with pitching uncertainties. Star shortstop Zach Neto is recognized as one of the league’s most versatile players. Additionally, outfielders Jo Adell and Taylor Ward combined for 73 home runs during the 2025 season, showcasing the potential for a powerful lineup. The Angels also boast star player Mike Trout, who is under contract through 2030, along with a promising young core that includes catcher Logan O'Hoppe, first baseman Nolan Schanuel, and second baseman Christian Moore.
Despite the offensive strengths, the Angels face significant challenges with an uncertain pitching rotation, aside from Yusei Kikuchi and Jose Soriano. Their bullpen remains a source of concern, especially in a competitive division that includes the Seattle Mariners, who narrowly missed the World Series. The 2025 season ended with a disappointing 72-90 record, marking the team's 10th consecutive losing season, which has left fans and analysts questioning the direction of the franchise.
Many fans express dissatisfaction with the ownership of Arte Moreno, who has faced criticism for his involvement in baseball operations, a lack of investment in player development, and a series of questionable decisions. Among these decisions was the failure to trade Shohei Ohtani before he became a free agent, as well as the choice not to match the contract offer from the Los Angeles Dodgers. Initial reports suggested that Moreno was focused on Pujols as a managerial candidate, but negotiations fell through, leading to Suzuki’s appointment.
As the Angels embark on this new chapter with Kurt Suzuki at the forefront, the organization hopes to break free from its playoff drought and rekindle the winning spirit that defined the team during Scioscia's tenure, which included a World Series championship in 2002 and multiple AL West titles.
