Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington, a true legend in Major League Baseball, won’t return for the rest of the 2025 season because of an unspecified medical issue.
The team announced this decision after Washington’s sudden health concerns popped up in June. It’s a big moment for the organization as they try to steer the season under new, interim leadership.
Washington’s influence still lingers, but the Angels now face a stretch of uncertainty. Bench coach Ray Montgomery has stepped in to guide the roster forward.
The Health Scare That Sidelines Ron Washington
Ron Washington, now 73, was enjoying his second managerial run in MLB when a health scare hit.
After the Angels finished their series against the New York Yankees on June 19, Washington felt short of breath and went back to Southern California for medical tests. As the league’s oldest manager, his situation naturally worried players, fans, and MLB leadership alike.
A Legacy Worth Acknowledging
Washington’s story in baseball is honestly remarkable. He’s known for his leadership and that classic, old-school style.
He managed the Texas Rangers from 2007 to 2014, leading them to back-to-back World Series in 2010 and 2011—something most managers just dream about. When he returned to manage the Angels in 2024, it was clear he hadn’t lost any of his passion for the game.
With Washington at the helm, the Angels put together a 103-140 record over 243 games. Sure, the win-loss numbers aren’t pretty, but Washington’s knack for building grit and resilience in his players earned him a lot of respect.
General Manager Perry Minasian even credited Washington for shaping a “tough” and “resilient” squad that really reflected his spirit.
Ray Montgomery Steps Into the Spotlight
With Washington out, Perry Minasian said Bench Coach Ray Montgomery would serve as interim manager for the rest of the season.
This is Montgomery’s first shot managing at the MLB level, which makes things even more unpredictable for the Angels.
Who Is Ray Montgomery?
Montgomery hasn’t managed at this level before, but he’s no stranger to the Angels.
He was the team’s director of player personnel before he switched to bench coach in 2021. His experience with the coaching staff and players makes him a logical fill-in while Washington’s away.
Under Montgomery’s interim leadership, the Angels have a promising 7-4 record. That’s a decent start, and it feels like the team’s responding to his guidance.
Still, stepping into Washington’s shoes isn’t easy. Montgomery, as a rookie skipper dealing with mid-season adversity, gets a real chance to prove he can lead through tough stretches and help the Angels find their footing in a division that’s anything but forgiving.
The Road Ahead for the Angels
Right now, the Angels sit at 40-41 and hover near .500 as the season’s midpoint approaches.
With Washington unavailable and Montgomery now in charge, the team faces an uphill battle. They need to compete in the standings and somehow hold onto the identity that Washington built.
Impact on Team Dynamic
This transition hits at a pivotal time, with the Angels fighting for relevance in the tough AL West.
Montgomery’s ability to handle different personalities and keep players motivated will be crucial if the club wants to stay focused despite all the noise. Veterans like Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani, plus the younger guys, really need to come together if they want to finish strong.
- Leadership void: Washington’s absence leaves a real gap in veteran guidance. Montgomery has to find his own style while still respecting what Washington built.
- Momentum under Montgomery: The 7-4 start under Montgomery gives some hope, but can they keep it going?
- Playoff implications: The Angels need a strong second half if they want any shot at the playoffs.
Final Thoughts on Washington’s Absence
Ron Washington’s medical leave really puts the human side of professional sports front and center. Fans and the Angels organization will definitely miss his charisma in the dugout.
Still, his health has to come first. General Manager Perry Minasian’s comments show just how much Washington means to this team.
Ray Montgomery gets his shot to steer the franchise through some pretty uncertain times. The roster’s got talent, and there’s still momentum to build on.
Will the Angels stay in the postseason race? That’s the big question. Fans are hoping Montgomery and the squad can channel the same grit and toughness that Washington brought every day.
Here is the source article for this story: Angels manager Ron Washington to remain on medical leave for remainder of season
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