The Los Angeles Angels recently welcomed back a familiar and inspiring figure. Manager Ron Washington made his first visit to the team since undergoing quadruple heart bypass surgery.
Washington, now 73, faced a serious health ordeal that began in mid-June. Everything moved fast, forcing him to make big changes—physically, mentally, and professionally.
With his trademark determination, Washington now aims for a full recovery by December. He’s already set his sights on returning to the dugout in September.
Ron Washington’s Health Scare Unfolds
Washington’s heart troubles started during the Angels’ June 16–19 road trip to New York. He noticed unusual ankle swelling and reported it to the training staff.
The team doctors acted quickly. They set up evaluations with specialists in New York, who urged him to stay for more treatment.
The Trip Back to Anaheim
Despite the recommendation, Washington chose to fly back to Anaheim with his team. That decision, driven by his sense of responsibility, ended up delaying the care he needed.
Just days later, on June 23, he checked into a local hospital. Tests there revealed dangerous blockages in his arteries.
The Surgery and Road to Recovery
Doctors acted fast. Washington underwent quadruple bypass surgery to address the blockages threatening his life.
He spent two weeks recovering after the operation and was discharged on July 7. He then returned home to New Orleans to continue his rehabilitation in a more comfortable setting.
Adapting to a New Lifestyle
The heart scare changed everything. Washington quit smoking and started eating healthier, knowing his career—and life—depend on it.
His upbeat outlook and determination have helped him stay motivated during recovery. It’s not easy, but he’s sticking with it.
Washington’s Message to the Public
At an August 25 news conference in Arlington, Texas, Washington described how quickly things happened. He admitted he barely had time to process events or contact many people before surgery.
He expressed gratitude for the support he’s received from the Angels organization, the media, and fans across baseball. That encouragement seems to mean a lot to him.
Staying Connected Amid Recovery
Even while away from the team, Washington stayed in touch with reporters, including those from USA TODAY Sports. In those conversations, he made it clear he expected to manage again this season.
Washington’s confidence didn’t waver. His intent to return in September has sparked real enthusiasm throughout the Angels’ clubhouse.
Looking Ahead for the Angels Manager
The Los Angeles Angels still hold an option for Washington to manage through 2026. He’s made it clear that stepping away from the game isn’t in his plans.
Honestly, he believes overcoming this challenge will make him a stronger leader for his team. The future? He’s not backing down from it.
Determination to Continue Managing
Washington’s career has always been about resilience. He’s spent decades in baseball, guiding players through good times and bad.
His leadership keeps things steady. This health battle just highlights what’s made him respected in every clubhouse he’s stepped into.
Key Takeaways from Washington’s Journey:
- Washington noticed symptoms early and still traveled with his team before surgery became unavoidable.
- Doctors performed quadruple bypass surgery to fix severe artery blockages.
- He’s quit smoking and pays more attention to his diet these days.
- He plans to rejoin the Angels in September and aims for a full recovery by December.
- Washington wants to keep managing past this season, and the team holds an option through 2026.
Washington’s story is about awareness and decisive action. When he returns, it’ll be a big moment for him and might just give the Angels a needed boost as the season winds down.
Here is the source article for this story: Ron Washington visits Angels for first time since quadruple bypass surgery
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