Former major league catcher Kurt Suzuki is reportedly a strong candidate for multiple managerial vacancies this offseason, including the Los Angeles Angels’ opening. According to recent reports, the Angels are preparing to interview Suzuki, who is also a candidate for the San Francisco Giants’ managerial position.
The Angels’ managerial spot became available after Ron Washington, who held the role for the past two seasons, underwent heart surgery this year. Ray Montgomery filled in as interim manager but was not retained when the season concluded. Although Washington expressed a desire to return to managing, the Angels opted for a fresh direction. Montgomery remains with the organization in a different capacity.
Initially, Hall of Famer Albert Pujols was considered the frontrunner for the Angels position, as Angels owner Arte Moreno favored him for the role. However, as the offseason progresses, the Baltimore Orioles and San Diego Padres have also shown interest in Pujols, adding to the competitive landscape for the managerial role.
In addition to Suzuki, the Angels are looking to interview former major league outfielder Torii Hunter, further expanding their candidate pool.
Suzuki brings substantial experience from his 16-year playing career, during which he was named an AL All-Star in 2014 and played a pivotal role in the Washington Nationals’ World Series title in 2019. After concluding his career, he joined the Angels’ front office as a special assistant to general manager Perry Minasian. He has recently interviewed for the Giants’ managerial vacancy alongside other candidates that include Nick Hundley, Craig Albernaz, and Brandon Hyde, the latter of whom has managerial experience with the Orioles.
While Suzuki and Hundley possess relatively little coaching experience compared to their peers, Buster Posey’s endorsement of former catchers as candidates may bolster their prospects in this managerial search. The offseason promises to be an exciting one for Suzuki as he explores potential opportunities to step into a leadership role in Major League Baseball.