The Washington Nationals are poised to appoint Blake Butera as their new manager, making him the youngest manager currently in Major League Baseball at just 33 years old. This announcement follows reports by ESPN’s Jeff Passan, marking a significant move for a team that has struggled since their World Series win in 2019.
Butera’s journey in baseball began when the Tampa Bay Rays drafted him in 2015. He started as an infielder but quickly transitioned into coaching. Over four seasons managing in the minor leagues, he compiled an impressive record of 258 wins and 144 losses. In 2023, Butera was promoted to senior director of player development within the Rays organization, underscoring his growing influence in the sport.
The Nationals have been navigating tough waters recently, finishing in fourth or last place in the National League East for six consecutive seasons. The team parted ways with both manager Dave Martinez and general manager Mike Rizzo earlier this year during a challenging 66-96 season.
Despite the struggles, the Nationals boast a roster that is one of the youngest in MLB, with an average age of 26.2 years. Star young players like James Wood, only 23, displayed great potential with 31 home runs last season, while 25-year-old CJ Abrams has emerged as a reliable starting shortstop after being a key part of the Juan Soto trade with the Padres in 2022.
Notably, Butera also showcased his coaching skills on an international stage as he led Team Italy in the 2023 World Baseball Classic. This new chapter for the Nationals, under the leadership of their youngest manager in half a century, could signal a hopeful turnaround for the franchise as they seek to develop and nurture their young talent into a competitive team once again.