The Los Angeles Angels welcomed in Ron Washington as the franchise’s newest manager during his introductory press conference on Wednesday.
Following a thorough interview process, the Angels, and general manager Perry Minasian, felt Washington was the man for the job. Given his wealth of knowledge, their new skipper is both a seasoned mind in Major League Baseball, but has been to multiple World Series’.
Washington has received a ton of outside praise for what he’s provided MLB, including players and staff, much having to do with his charismatic personality and teaching style. Torii Hunter, who also interviewed for the Angels’ manager slot, dubbed the hire as a ‘perfect fit’, providing a lot of praise for the job he’ll do.
Minasian was alongside Washington on Wednesday, providing him with his own Angels jersey, officially making him part of the organization. The GM also noted that there’s been considerable buzz with their decision, which has had his phone ringing with inquires, per Jeff Fletcher of the Southern California News Group:
“I’ve gotten numerous calls already from people that have played for him or people that know him, not only excited for him and his opportunity but wouldn’t mind joining the party over here,” Minasian said.
Washington has added a few other names to their coaching staff, including Ryan Goins, a former big league player. The new Angels’ manager vowed that he would bring a different emphasis to the team in coming years:
“Nobody has more respect from players than Ron Washington, and I think you’ve just experienced it,” Minasian said after Washington got the crowd worked up during his introductory remarks. “When he talks, people listen. He’s got a way of connecting and giving people confidence. And I think he’s gonna get the most out of our group. I’m really excited to work with him and somebody I’m going to learn from.”
The Angels expectation level isn’t high, but under Washington, they now have an opportunity to provide their young players with a coach that isn’t afraid to still set an example in how to play the game. He’s devoted a lot of his time to teaching infielders with the Braves, which garnered praise from that star-studded roster.
Eric Young Sr. joins Angels staff with Ron Washington
Eric Young Sr. and Washington worked side by side in Atlanta during their years with the Braves from 2018-2023.
Young was previously a coach for the Arizona Diamondbacks (2010-2012) and Colorado Rockies (2014-2016) as well.
Prior to his coaching career, Young enjoyed a 15-year run as an MLB player that included stops with the Rockies (1993-1997), Los Angeles Dodgers (1998-1999), Chicago Cubs (2000-2001), Milwaukee Brewers (2002-2003), San Francisco Giants (2003), Texas Rangers (2004; 2006) and San Diego Padres (2005-2006).
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