The Angels’ new manager, Ron Washington, has brought a renewed energy to the team’s spring training complex in Tempe, Arizona.
Despite being 71 years old, Washington is often seen hitting fungoes on the half field as early as 6:45 in the morning.
His energetic approach has inspired the young players on the team and has instilled a sense of enthusiasm and optimism in the clubhouse.
For Washington, this opportunity to manage a major league baseball club is a second chance that he has eagerly embraced.
After a tumultuous past that included a positive test for cocaine and admitting to infidelity, Washington is grateful for the opportunity to lead again.
This will be his first time filling out a lineup card as a big-league manager since 2014 when he led the Texas Rangers to back-to-back American League pennants.
Despite the challenges he has faced, Washington remains true to himself and his approach to the game. He believes in going about his baseball business the same way, whether as a manager or a coach.
The players have noticed the positive atmosphere Washington has created, although they acknowledge that the team’s desire to win has always been present.
In addition to his infectious enthusiasm, Washington brings five decades of experience in the big leagues. He was part of winning teams with the Athletics and the Braves, including a World Series win with the Braves in 2021.
The players recognize Washington’s track record of success and believe his presence will contribute to a winning culture.
Ron Washington, the new manager of the Los Angeles Angels, is determined to turn around the team’s fortunes. He is focused on improving the defense, particularly the infield defense, and has been drilling the players on fundamentals.
The Angels are also emphasizing aggressive baserunning and situational hitting skills.
Angels manager Ron Washington is asked about his team's defense in the second inning on Thursday.
"What defense are you talking about?
"The error, and then there was a couple plays that maybe could have been made."
"You gotta explain that one to me."pic.twitter.com/hwD5jsllYJ
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) March 29, 2024
Washington believes that doing the little things right will add up to big things and help the team succeed. He is grateful for the opportunity to manage again and loves helping players believe in themselves.
The Angels are hoping that their young roster, combined with Washington’s winning culture, can surprise the baseball world and make a postseason run.
Washington is looking for the team to bring a playoff energy every single day and focus on the fundamentals. Despite budget cuts, the Angels are determined to break their postseason and winning season drought.
Washington’s mentality shift and focus on taking things one day at a time are key factors in the team’s pursuit of success.
Washington’s arrival has revitalized the Angels’ spring training complex, and the team is eagerly preparing for the upcoming season with him at the helm.
Fans reacted as follows:
Gonna be long year for Uncle Ron. #Angels
— Jim Rodriguez aka JRod (@JRodShow) March 29, 2024
Long season same old sorry Los Angeles
— RAPATTACK OFFICAL DJS OWN DEEJAYFRRESH (@Rapattackog) March 29, 2024
for every loss, just remember, Mike Trout willingly plays for this team
— Robert Ozias III 🍕 (@timehasflownby) March 29, 2024
Taking drugs again??
— Douglas Prohaski (@coachchr) March 29, 2024
— Michael Stenberg (@drealMstenberg) March 29, 2024
