The Hiring of Ron Washington Raises Questions About the Los Angeles Angels’ Future
Since Arte Moreno took over as the owner of the Los Angeles Angels in 2003, the team has been plagued by short-term thinking and disappointing results. The recent hiring of Ron Washington as the new manager only adds to the uncertainty surrounding the franchise.
A Club in Decline
The Angels, once the defending champions, are now a team with a bleak future. Their farm system lacks talent, and Moreno has overpaid for a roster that has failed to deliver significant results. Despite these challenges, Washington saw an opportunity to lead a club and accepted the job.
However, the fit between Washington and the Angels is questionable at best. At 71 years old, Washington is not the young and vibrant manager that the team needs. With Shohei Ohtani’s future with the team uncertain, the Angels are not built to win in the short-term.
A Path to Mediocrity
The Angels have not appeared in the postseason for nine years and have not won a playoff game in 14 years. It seems that the team is content to continue down the same path, rather than making bold moves to rebuild and compete. Hiring Washington, a septuagenarian, is a clear indication of their lack of direction.
Furthermore, Washington’s past scandals and controversies raise concerns about his suitability for the role. He abruptly resigned as manager of the Texas Rangers in 2014 amidst allegations of sexual assault. While the allegations were never proven, Washington’s history of drug addiction and infidelity cast a shadow over his managerial abilities.
A Desperate Move
The Angels’ aggressive offseason moves, such as trading top prospects for players who failed to deliver, only highlight their desperation to find success. Washington’s hiring, in the wake of Dusty Baker’s retirement, makes him the oldest manager in baseball. While his experience may be valuable to a playoff-ready team, it seems like another ill-advised move for the Angels.
Overall, the hiring of Ron Washington raises serious questions about the Los Angeles Angels’ future. With an unstable foundation, a lack of direction, and a questionable choice for manager, the team seems destined for more disappointment. Only time will tell if this decision will lead to a turnaround or further exacerbate the Angels’ struggles.