The Los Angeles Angels appear to be taking a different approach under interim general manager John Mozeliak, and one of the first major changes at the end of the season could be moving on from manager Kurt Suzuki. That possibility became even more apparent after the team recently dismissed several members of his coaching staff.
Suzuki’s future with the Angels has seemed uncertain since he was handed a one-year contract, but Mozeliak’s arrival may have effectively sealed his fate. New front-office leaders often prefer to bring in their own manager, and while Suzuki hasn’t been disastrous, the Angels could ultimately decide that a fresh start is the best option for everyone involved.
There will likely be plenty of speculation surrounding Albert Pujols, especially since he interviewed for the Angels’ managerial position last year. His longstanding connection with John Mozeliak could also make him an intriguing candidate, as the two have a history dating back to Pujols’ playing days with the St. Louis Cardinals, when Mozeliak was overseeing the organization’s baseball operations.
3 possible candidates to replace Kurt Suzuki as Angels manager
It’s far from a guarantee, however. Pujols could receive a more attractive opportunity elsewhere, or his financial demands could make a deal difficult. With that possibility in mind, the Angels need to prepare alternative options. Here are three potential candidates for the managerial position who aren’t named Albert Pujols.
Torii Hunter
If the Angels decide to take the popular route of hiring a former player, Torii Hunter could be an intriguing alternative. The longtime Angels star has previously been considered for the managerial position and already has a strong connection to the organization as a front-office adviser. His reputation as a respected clubhouse leader could also make him an appealing choice.
Hunter’s lack of significant coaching experience would make him something of a gamble, but he still brings plenty of credibility and familiarity with the organization. If Mozeliak prefers a recognizable former player who can connect with the fan base while bringing a fresh voice to the clubhouse, Hunter could be a reasonable option.
Alex Cora
Alex Cora could be an intriguing option for the Angels, even if he is likely to draw interest from more prominent organizations. After being fired by Boston earlier this season, Cora may be open to a situation that offers a different kind of challenge.
Rather than stepping into another win-now environment on the East Coast, Cora could find an appealing opportunity in Southern California, where the Angels have the flexibility to build toward contention over time. At 50, he could also benefit from taking charge of a younger roster and having the chance to shape the team’s identity and development from the ground up.
Ryan Flaherty
Ryan Flaherty, currently the Chicago Cubs’ bench coach, has emerged as a potential managerial candidate for the offseason. At 40 years old, his age could appeal to John Mozeliak if the Angels are looking for a younger manager capable of developing a roster that is expected to feature plenty of young talent.
Ultimately, whoever takes over in Los Angeles will need to fully embrace Mozeliak’s vision for the organization. With Mozeliak seemingly positioned to take on a permanent role, his philosophy will likely shape the franchise’s direction moving forward. That makes finding a manager who shares his vision and is willing to work in lockstep with the front office especially important. Mozeliak has already emphasized building a stronger internal player-development system, suggesting that alignment between the manager and front office will be a major priority.
