BREAKING NEWS: The Los Angeles Angels have officially hired Kurt Suzuki as their new manager, according to sources confirmed by ESPN just moments ago. This decision comes as the franchise faces the longest playoff drought in Major League Baseball, with ten consecutive losing seasons now on the record.
Suzuki, a 42-year-old former MLB catcher, steps into the managerial role without prior coaching experience, but he brings a wealth of knowledge from his 16-year playing career, including a World Series title with the Washington Nationals in 2019. Having served as a special assistant to Angels general manager Perry Minasian for the past three years, Suzuki is expected to bring a fresh perspective to a team that has struggled with consistency.
The Angels are coming off a disappointing 2025 season where they finished with a 72-90 record. Suzuki replaces Ron Washington, who missed a significant portion of the season due to health issues. Interim manager Ray Montgomery was offered a different role within the organization but was not considered for the full-time position.
Inheriting a roster filled with offensive power, Suzuki will need to address serious pitching concerns. Stars like Mike Trout, who is under contract through 2030, and young talents like Zach Neto, Jo Adell, and Taylor Ward, who combined for 73 home runs in 2025, will provide offensive support. However, the pitching rotation remains a significant issue with only Yusei Kikuchi and Jose Soriano offering any semblance of stability.
The Angels’ management, led by owner Arte Moreno, has faced criticism for its handling of operations, including the controversial decision not to trade Shohei Ohtani before his impending free agency. Fans have long expressed dissatisfaction with Moreno’s involvement in baseball decisions, and the organization has not won a playoff game since 2009.
Suzuki becomes the fifth manager since Mike Scioscia ended his 19-year tenure in 2018, following Brad Ausmus, Joe Maddon, Phil Nevin, and Washington. Under Scioscia, the Angels celebrated their first World Series championship in 2002, but the franchise has struggled to replicate that success, making the postseason only once in the last decade.
As the Angels prepare for the 2026 season, all eyes will be on Suzuki to see if he can navigate the challenges ahead and lead the team out of its playoff drought. The pressure is on, and fans are eager to see immediate changes.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Suzuki embarks on his managerial journey with the Angels.
