This hasn't been a banner year for the Los Angeles Angels.
The team has endured a season filled with disappointments, extending the longest playoff drought in Major League Baseball history. The Angels have clinched their ninth consecutive losing season, and for the first time since 1999, they are set to finish last in their division. A single additional loss will set an unfortunate franchise record, as the Angels currently have 95 losses, tying the dismal seasons of 1968 and 1980.
Managerial Change
Ron Washington is in his inaugural year as manager of the Angels, and his tenure has been anything but smooth. Washington, a seasoned veteran in the baseball world, has found himself navigating through a myriad of challenges, from injuries to key players to a roster that hasn't lived up to its potential. Mike Trout, a cornerstone of the team, logged just 29 games this season, while third baseman Anthony Rendon appeared in only 57 games. Such absences undoubtedly put a strain on the team's overall performance.
The Challenges
The Angels' struggles were not constant throughout the entire season. In July, the team posted a winning record, heading into August with a 47-61 tally, providing a glimmer of hope for fans. However, the narrative quickly shifted as the team managed a dismal 16-34 record in August and September, cementing their place at the bottom of the standings.
Washington has been candid about the state of the team and the need for growth among its younger players. Promising talents such as Logan O'Hoppe, Nolan Schanuel, Zach Neto, and Jo Adell are all 25 years old or younger, offering a glimpse into a possibly brighter future if their development is handled correctly. Washington emphasized this point, stating, "It's players that have to grow into big-league players."
Controversial Remarks
Washington's straightforward approach, however, has not been without its share of controversy. In a moment of candor, he commented, "We're going to get some baseball players who may not be superstars, but they know how to play. We forgot to bring real baseball players into the organization. Nothing against those guys here, but they're not big-league baseball players and they certainly can't help us win a championship." This statement stirred reactions, prompting Washington to clarify his stance: "I misspoke. I didn't mean it the way it came out, where I'm saying the organization isn't giving me big-league players. It's players that have to grow into big-league players."
Looking Forward
As the season draws to a close, the Angels face the reality of setting a new franchise record for losses, a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead. However, with a core of young players that show promise and a manager who is keen on developing them into big-league contributors, there is cautious optimism for the future. The road to rebuilding may be long, but Washington's commitment to nurturing young talent is a step in the right direction.
While this season may not have unfolded as hoped for the Los Angeles Angels, the potential for growth remains. The journey to regain a competitive edge in Major League Baseball will require both patience and perseverance, traits that Ron Washington appears ready to instill in his team.