Angels Set to Spotlight Torii Hunter and Kurt Suzuki in Exclusive Interviews!

The Los Angeles Angels are expanding their search for a new manager. According to Sam Blum of The Athletic, they plan to interview former players Torii Hunter and Kurt Suzuki. Just last week, the team was in talks with Albert Pujols, the favorite for the role. Owner Arte Moreno is now considering a wider range of candidates.

Hunter and Suzuki both have strong ties to the Angels. Hunter was an All-Star and won two Gold Gloves while playing for the team between 2008 and 2012. Suzuki finished his playing career with the Angels in 2021 and 2022. Currently, they both serve as special assistants to general manager Perry Minasian.

One interesting aspect is that neither Hunter nor Suzuki has experience as a coach or manager in MLB. Hunter has spent about ten years in special assistant roles and was considered for the managerial position last year, which went to Ron Washington. Meanwhile, Suzuki has interviewed with other teams, including the Giants.

The Angels are also looking at other candidates. Some names popping up include Nick Hundley, who is a special assistant with the Texas Rangers, as well as Ryan Flaherty, the bench coach for the Chicago Cubs. Both have been linked to other positions but have not managed in the major leagues before.

Brandon Hyde, former manager of the Baltimore Orioles, is also in the running. He’s expressed a desire to continue managing and has been connected to the Giants’ opening. Rocco Baldelli, formerly with the Minnesota Twins, mentioned he’s focusing on family but hopes to stay involved in baseball.

Despite interest in multiple candidates, Pujols remains a key focus. However, his future could also shift, as he is expected to interview for the managerial spot with the Orioles.

While the Angels explore their options, the outcome of this search could reshape the team’s future. Engaging past players like Pujols, Hunter, and Suzuki emphasizes the organization’s commitment to its legacy while seeking fresh leadership. The dynamics of this search reflect a broader trend in sports—teams often look to former players for leadership, valuing their experience and connection to the franchise’s culture.



Source link

albert pujols,brandon hyde,kurt suzuki,nick hundley,rocco baldelli,ryan flaherty,torii hunter