In a resolute statement on Wednesday, Los Angeles Angels’ General Manager Perry Minasian made it clear that the team has no intentions of taking a step back or engaging in a rebuilding phase in the upcoming 2024 season.
“We’re going to be aggressive this offseason,” Minasian asserted, emphasizing the team’s commitment to enhancing its performance. The newly appointed manager, Ron Washington, known for his passion and widespread respect, is expected to play a pivotal role in this endeavor.
Minasian expressed enthusiasm about the positive reception Washington has received, stating, “I’ve gotten numerous calls already of people that have played for him, people that know him – not only excited for him and his opportunity but wouldn’t mind joining the party over here. That’s exciting, too.”
In a formal introduction on Wednesday, Washington, now the Angels’ fifth manager in eight years, conveyed his determination to bring about a transformative change within the organization. The Angels, despite a notable history, have faced challenges in recent years, marked by managerial changes and a postseason drought since 2009.
Washington, signing a two-year contract with a club option, aims to reverse this trend. Referencing his successful tenure with the Texas Rangers, where he led the team to the World Series in 2010 and 2011, Washington confidently declared, “Our whole focus is gonna be to run the West down. And you can take that to the bank and deposit it.”
Having spent six decades in baseball, Washington is renowned for his coaching expertise, particularly as one of the best third-base coaches and infield instructors. Despite managerial opportunities being a decade apart, Washington’s unwavering belief in his ability to lead remained.
Minasian, who has known Washington since 2007, emphasized the qualities that drew him to the new manager, stating, “He is the definition of respect and belief, and those were the two most important qualities for me.”
The decision to appoint Washington came after a one-on-one meeting and a detailed dinner conversation. Minasian recalled waking up one morning, listing traits of esteemed managers, with Washington standing out. Following a five-hour conversation in New Orleans, Minasian recommended Washington to Angels’ owner Arte Moreno and president John Carpino.
Washington’s eagerness for this opportunity was evident to Minasian, who said, “He was dying for this opportunity, and I could feel it.”
With a commitment to win and a desire for good baseball, Washington and Moreno discussed their vision during a brunch meeting in Arizona. The Angels, looking to recover from injuries to key players like Trout and Rendon, aim to reinforce their roster and continue their aggressive spending strategy.
In his closing remarks, Washington addressed the team’s critics, stating, “Here in Angel country, there’s such a thing as the inside-out syndrome. Everybody on the inside, they will know what will happen.” The Angels are gearing up for an ambitious and transformative offseason under their new leadership.