The Los Angeles Angels have made a shift in their coaching ranks, adding respected baseball mind Ron Washington as the organization’s manager.
The decision by the Angels front office to hire Washington has been well-received around the Major League Baseball. Much having to do with the rapport he’s built up with his enthusiastic personality and tenure in the league as both a player and coach.
General manager Perry Minasian expressed deep support for what they’re building, and the addition of Ryan Goins, Eric Young Sr., among others, are solid moves. The Angels announced they added former Los Angeles Dodgers Minor League hitting coordinator to join their staff, per Alden González of ESPN.
One more addition: Tim Laker, former Dodgers minor league hitting coordinator and former Mariners hitting coach, is the Angels’ new offense dive coordinator. The Angels say he’ll work closely with Johnny Washington.
— Alden González (@Alden_Gonzalez) November 21, 2023
Laker was paramount in the resurgence of current San Diego Padres’ left-handed bat Matt Carpenter, as the hitting coach helped rejuvenate his career. Carpenter was a member of the New York Yankees at the time in 2022, which saw him post one of the best offensive seasons in nearly a decade.
Working in conjunction with hitting coach Johnny Washington will be an interesting proposition with as many young players as the Angels have on their roster.
Ron Washington hire created buzz around Angels new coaching opportunities
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.
Minasian was alongside Washington during his introductory press conference this past week, 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.
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.
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