The Los Angeles Angels’ managerial search has taken a surprising turn. What looked like a quick coronation for Albert Pujols has morphed into a broad interview process with several big names from around baseball.
At first, it seemed like the Angels would simply appoint the future Hall of Famer. Now, they’re taking a slower, more careful look at their options. Team owner Arte Moreno and general manager Perry Minasian are leading the charge, digging into both familiar faces from Angels history and some interesting outsiders with varied coaching backgrounds.
From Front-Runner to Open Competition
Albert Pujols started out as the obvious pick to manage the Angels, and honestly, it made sense. He’s got a legendary career, strong ties to the organization, and recently found success managing in the Dominican Winter League.
On October 9, Pujols sat down with Angels leadership in St. Louis. Reports say the meeting went well and both sides felt good about it.
A Change in Strategy From Arte Moreno
Even with Pujols looking like the favorite, Moreno decided to widen the search. Maybe he learned something new, or just wanted to compare candidates, or maybe he changed his mind for reasons we’ll never know.
It’s a reminder that picking the right manager isn’t just about big names or shiny résumés. The right fit has to match the team’s vision, culture, and where they want to go next.
The Expanding Candidate Pool
Perry Minasian is running this next round of interviews. The process could stretch into late October, maybe even past the World Series.
They’re looking at a mix of former Angels and respected baseball minds from all over the league.
Names to Watch in the Angels’ Search
Pujols is still in the mix, but here are a few other possible contenders:
- Torii Hunter – Former Angels outfielder, loved for his leadership and his bond with fans.
- Kurt Suzuki – Ex-Angels catcher who understands team dynamics and how to handle modern pitching staffs.
- Nick Hundley – Special assistant with the Texas Rangers, known for his analytical thinking and player development chops.
- Ryan Flaherty – Chicago Cubs bench coach; he’s got a sharp baseball mind and connects well with younger players.
- Brandon Hyde – Former Orioles skipper who’s led a rebuilding team through some tough years.
- Rocco Baldelli – Managed the Twins, praised for using analytics creatively and keeping calm under pressure.
The Pujols Factor
Pujols is still a fascinating option, and it’s not just about his playing days. He has a personal services contract with the Angels—$10 million over 10 years, with $7 million left on it. That’s a wrinkle, sure, but sources inside the team say money isn’t what’s driving Moreno to look at more candidates.
Pujols’ Rising Profile in the Managerial World
Outside Anaheim, Pujols’ name is making waves as a manager. He’s already turned heads with his leadership in the Dominican Winter League and will manage the Dominican Republic’s national team.
Word is, more than one MLB team—including the Orioles—has noticed his early coaching success and on-field experience.
What This Means for the Angels’ Future
Whoever the Angels choose as manager is going to shape the next few years, no doubt about it. Shohei Ohtani’s future is up in the air, and the Angels’ farm system could use a spark.
The next skipper has to find a balance between winning now and building for later. By casting a wider net, the Angels seem serious about finding the right person—not just a familiar name—for what feels like a make-or-break stretch in team history.
A Decision on the Horizon
The search looks set to wrap up by the end of October, or maybe just after the World Series. Will the hire be Pujols, with his mix of star power and new managerial energy? Or will it be one of the other contenders, each bringing their own quirks and strengths?
Whatever happens, the outcome will shape the Angels’ story for 2024 and probably long after. It’s a big decision, no doubt about it.
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Here is the source article for this story: Angels broaden managerial search, though Albert Pujols remains top choice
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