Angels manager Ron Washington will be stepping away from his duties for an indefinite period due to a health concern, as announced by general manager Perry Minasian on Friday. While Washington, 73, will remain involved with the team, he will not be present in the dugout as he addresses the undisclosed health issue.
Minasian shared that Washington was able to speak to the team alongside him in the clubhouse prior to the Angels’ 3-2 loss to the Astros. However, Washington did not make himself available to the media and reportedly watched the game from the general manager’s suite at Angel Stadium.
Health Comes First
“Wash has not felt great the last couple of days,” Minasian stated before the game. “We want to ensure he’s 100% before he’s back in the dugout and managing. How long it’s going to take, I don’t know. I don’t expect it to be too long.”
Minasian emphasized the importance of Washington’s health over his managerial duties. “Health is more important than anything,” he said. “I’m not letting him back in the dugout until I know he’s 100% OK. I love the guy too much.”
Meanwhile, Angels bench coach Ray Montgomery has assumed the role of interim manager, marking his debut in this capacity during Friday night’s game.
Washington’s Impact and Team Dynamics
Washington, now in his second season with the Angels, has led the team to a 36-38 record prior to his temporary departure. His influence on the team extends beyond the field. At the start of the season, Washington introduced a new workout regimen that has been well received by the players.
Angels left fielder Taylor Ward praised Washington’s approach in an interview with MLB.com in April.
“I think it’s great every single thing Wash has done so far,” Ward said. “I love it. And it might just be what we need.”
Washington elaborated on his decision to hold a full team workout on what was originally an off day, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus and momentum. “I think it was important because I don’t want them to get caught up in the fact that we’re not playing baseball the way we’re capable of playing baseball,” Washington explained.
Looking Ahead
Despite the current challenges, Washington remains optimistic about the team’s future. He has expressed confidence that the Angels are on an upward trajectory compared to their previous season, where they finished with a 63-99 record.
“We’re gonna be on that trajectory,” Washington stated. “We don’t think, we will be. But we have to stay in the process, we have to work, we have to learn, we’ve got to apply. That’s what the game of baseball is about: work, learning and applying. And we’re going to do that.”
As the Angels navigate this period without their manager in the dugout, the team and its fans will undoubtedly be hoping for Washington’s swift and full recovery, allowing him to return to his pivotal role.
