BREAKING: The Los Angeles Angels have officially hired Kurt Suzuki as their new manager, sources confirmed to ESPN earlier today. This move marks a pivotal moment for the franchise, which is grappling with the longest playoff drought in Major League Baseball history.
Suzuki, a seasoned veteran at the age of 42, brings a wealth of experience from his 16-year playing career, including a 2019 World Series championship with the Washington Nationals. Despite having no formal coaching background, he has served as a special assistant to Angels general manager Perry Minasian for the past three years, positioning him to lead a team desperate for change.
The Angels are coming off a disappointing 2025 season with a record of 72-90, marking their 10th consecutive losing season. Suzuki steps in to replace Ron Washington, who faced health issues and missed nearly half of the season after undergoing quadruple bypass surgery. Interim manager Ray Montgomery was offered another role but will not continue as the full-time manager.
Suzuki inherits a roster that boasts significant offensive talent, including standout shortstop Zach Neto and powerful outfielders Jo Adell and Taylor Ward, who collectively hit 73 home runs in 2025. However, the team’s pitching remains a critical concern, with only Yusei Kikuchi and Jose Soriano providing stability in a rotation plagued by uncertainty.
The Angels have not won a playoff game since 2009 and have only reached the postseason once since then, suffering a sweep in the 2014 AL Division Series against the Kansas City Royals. Under the leadership of former manager Mike Scioscia, the team clinched its first World Series title in 2002 and enjoyed five AL West championships from 2004 to 2009.
Frustration among fans has been mounting, particularly aimed at owner Arte Moreno, who has faced criticism for his involvement in baseball operations and decision-making. Many recall the missed opportunity to trade superstar Shohei Ohtani before he became a free agent, leading to a loss of potential assets when he signed with the rival Los Angeles Dodgers.
Suzuki is now the fifth manager since Scioscia’s departure, following Brad Ausmus, Joe Maddon, Phil Nevin, and Washington. As the Angels look to turn the tide, eyes will be on Suzuki to revitalize a struggling team and bring back the winning culture that once defined the franchise.
Fans are eager for immediate results as Suzuki takes the helm. The upcoming offseason will be critical for the Angels as they aim to address their pitching woes and solidify their roster in a competitive AL West division, especially with the Seattle Mariners proving to be formidable contenders.
Stay tuned for further updates as Suzuki begins this new chapter with the Angels, a franchise looking to reclaim its former glory and end the playoff drought that has haunted them for over a decade.
