The Los Angeles Angels have retained Ron Washington as manager, general manager Perry Minasian revealed to Jeff Fletcher of the OC Register. The Angels have elected to continue with Washington, despite the fact that the team finished with the worst record in franchise history, 63-99.
“He was perfect, for me,” Minasian remarked. “We obviously want to win more games. However, when it comes to what my vision for that position should be, accountability comes first. And establishing accountability within that room. Setting expectations in that room. Establishing a work ethic in that room. Teaching from a gaming perspective, circumstance by situation. That applies to our staff as well.”
Minasian stated that continuity is vital to him, which contributed to the choice to keep Washington. The Angels prioritized continuity late in the season, signing Minasian to a two-year contract extension in August.
While the Angels were unsuccessful this season, Washington was just in his first season with the team. For a team that lost one of its finest players, Shohei Ohtani, over the offseason and another top player, Mike Trout, early in the season due to a damaged meniscus, Washington had little hope of success this season.
Washington previously enjoyed success as the manager of the Texas Rangers from 2007 to 2014. Even yet, it took Washington two years to lead the Rangers to second place in their division and four seasons to reach the playoffs. Under Washington, the Rangers finished second or first in the American League West for six consecutive seasons, winning the division twice. They also made it to the World Series twice under Washington, but both times they lost.
Washington was unable to have a significant positive impact in Year 1, but firing him is unlikely to solve the problem or help the Angels progress. This constancy should allow the Angels to make improvement next season, particularly with their young core.
Of course, the Angels will need to add more talent to see their squad progress under Washington. The franchise has been chastised for failing to sign many top free agents and players, as well as losing a player of Ohtani’s level. Without upgrading their roster, it’s difficult to envision the Angels making major progress in the future.
