After four years as the general manager of the Los Angeles Angels, Perry Minasian is set to continue in his role, despite the team’s lackluster performance under his tenure. The Angels have struggled to be competitive, with no more than 77 wins in a season from 2021 to 2023 and currently on pace for 93 losses in 2024. This performance is compounded by the fact that the team’s farm system has consistently been ranked as the worst in the industry. However, owner Arte Moreno has opted for stability, choosing to retain Minasian as the GM rather than making yet another change at the top.
Minasian took over as the GM after the COVID-shortened 2020 season, inheriting a roster that was front-loaded with talent but had a barren farm system. While he managed to get transcendent seasons from two-way sensation Shohei Ohtani, injuries to stars like Mike Trout and Anthony Rendon hampered the team’s success. Minasian made bold moves, such as an all-pitcher draft in 2021, but the impact of these decisions has yet to be seen at the major league level.
Despite the team’s struggles, Minasian has brought in some promising young talent, such as catcher Logan O’Hoppe, first baseman Nolan Schanuel, and shortstop Zach Neto. Additionally, the recent draft pick of second baseman Christian Moore has already shown promise in Double-A. The new coaching staff, led by manager Ron Washington, has been praised for its work in developing young players, providing hope for the future of the franchise.
The Angels’ issues go beyond Minasian’s tenure, as the team is set to miss the postseason for the 10th consecutive year in 2024. Despite the individual achievements of players like Trout and Ohtani, the team has been unable to build a consistent contender. The franchise’s last playoff win was in 2009, highlighting the prolonged period of mediocrity that the team has experienced.
As the Angels navigate through what appears to be a transitional period, the focus will be on developing young talent while hoping for the continued health of key players like Trout and Rendon. Minasian will be tasked with guiding the team through these challenges and working towards building a competitive roster for the future. Despite the team’s recent struggles, there is optimism surrounding the young talent within the organization and the potential for a brighter future under Minasian’s leadership.
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