Ron Washington Takes Over as Los Angeles Angels Manager, Aims to End Decade of Losing Baseball
In a move aimed at turning around nearly a decade of losing baseball, the Los Angeles Angels have hired veteran manager Ron Washington to lead the team. The 71-year-old Washington, who previously managed the Texas Rangers and served as the Atlanta Braves’ third base coach, becomes the oldest current manager in Major League Baseball and only the second active Black manager, joining the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Dave Roberts.
Washington brings a wealth of experience to the Angels, having led the Rangers from 2007 to 2014, during which time he won two American League pennants and compiled a record of 664-611. In his seven seasons with the Braves, Washington played a role in their 2021 World Series title.
The decision to hire Washington comes after the Angels parted ways with former manager Phil Nevin, who presided over 1 1/2 losing seasons in charge of the struggling franchise. Under Nevin’s leadership, the Angels endured eight consecutive losing seasons and nine straight non-playoff seasons, making them the team with the longest such streak in the league.
With an impressive payroll and star players like three-time AL MVP Mike Trout and two-way sensation Shohei Ohtani, the Angels have been perennial underachievers. The hope is that Washington’s experience and demeanor will help revitalize the franchise and bring long-awaited success to the team.
Washington takes the reins as the Angels’ fourth manager in the last six seasons, succeeding the legendary Mike Scioscia, who spent 19 years as the team’s manager before leaving in 2018. Washington’s extensive knowledge of the American League West, acquired during his time with the Rangers and his 13 seasons as a coach with the Oakland Athletics, will be valuable in navigating the division.
It’s worth noting that Washington’s appointment also makes him the oldest current manager in MLB, surpassing Bruce Bochy and Brian Snitker, both 68 years old. As the Angels prepare for the upcoming season, the team will be hoping that Washington’s age and experience translate into success on the field.
The hiring of Ron Washington brings anticipation and excitement to fans of the Los Angeles Angels. With Washington’s track record, coupled with the team’s talented roster, the hope is that the Angels can finally put an end to their decade-long slump and compete for a championship. Only time will tell if Washington can turn their fortunes around, but there is renewed optimism within the organization and among supporters as they look ahead to a brighter future under their new manager.
