The Los Angeles Angels have appointed former catcher Kurt Suzuki as their new manager after discussions with baseball legend Albert Pujols fell through. Suzuki, a former Angels player and World Series champion, steps into this key role despite having no prior coaching experience. The team hopes for a fresh start after years of struggle.

For the Los Angeles Angels, change has become a familiar word. After years of inconsistent performances and multiple managerial switches, the team has once again decided to take a new direction. This time, the Angels have chosen former catcher Kurt Suzuki to be their new manager, marking a fresh chapter for the franchise. The decision came after talks with Albert Pujols, one of baseball’s biggest names and a former Angels and St. Louis Cardinals star, fell through due to disagreements on terms.

Suzuki, who is 42 years old, played 16 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB). He finished his playing career with the Angels in 2022, where he served as the team’s backup catcher. After retiring, he stayed close to the game and the team, working as a special assistant to Angels general manager Perry Minasian for three years. Now, he is set to step into the manager’s role — a big responsibility that comes without any previous coaching experience.

The decision to hire Suzuki surprised some fans and experts, as many thought Albert Pujols would take the job. Reports say Pujols met with Minasian on October 9 to discuss the managerial opening. Both sides were interested, but negotiations reportedly ended after they could not reach an agreement on the details of the contract. According to The Athletic, former Angels outfielder Torii Hunter was also a contender for the position. Like Suzuki, Hunter had also been serving as a special assistant to Minasian.

Despite his lack of professional coaching background, Suzuki brings with him years of playing experience and deep knowledge of the game. Throughout his long career, he played for five MLB teams, including the Washington Nationals, with whom he won the 2019 World Series. His teammates have often described him as calm, smart, and great at understanding the mindset of pitchers and hitters. Many believe these qualities could help him transition smoothly into the role of manager.

The Angels’ decision to appoint Suzuki follows another disappointing season. The team finished with a 72–90 record, which means they lost far more games than they won. Because of this poor performance, the team decided to part ways with manager Ron Washington and his interim replacement, Ray Montgomery. Washington, who is 73 years old, had to step down from his duties in June after undergoing quadruple bypass heart surgery. Montgomery, who had been serving as the team’s bench coach, took over as the interim manager for the rest of the season. Unfortunately, under his guidance, the Angels went 36–52, continuing their losing streak.

Although Montgomery was not considered for the permanent position, reports suggest that he has been offered another role within the Angels organization. It’s clear that the management wanted a completely new approach — and Suzuki’s hiring seems to reflect that desire for change.

Since Mike Scioscia’s long and successful 19-year run as manager ended in 2018, the Angels have struggled to find stability. Scioscia had led the team to several playoff appearances and even a World Series title in 2002. But after his departure, the managerial position became something of a revolving door. Brad Ausmus lasted only one season before being replaced by Joe Maddon, who stayed for about two and a half seasons. Then came Phil Nevin, who took over midway through 2022 and managed the full 2023 season before being replaced by Washington. Now, Suzuki becomes the fifth manager to take charge since Scioscia’s exit.

This constant change in leadership has made it difficult for the Angels to build consistency and long-term success. The team has not made the playoffs since 2014, and in eight of the last ten seasons, they have finished either fourth or fifth in the American League West Division. For fans, these years have been frustrating — especially considering the presence of superstar players like Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout, who are among the best in baseball.

Hiring Kurt Suzuki might not have been the most expected move, but it does bring something different. He is known for his quiet confidence, his ability to connect with players, and his deep understanding of the game from behind the plate. Catchers often make good managers because they are involved in every pitch, every play, and every defensive strategy. Suzuki has spent years studying how games unfold, calling pitches, and managing pitchers’ emotions — all of which are key qualities in a good manager.

For the Angels, this decision represents hope for a new beginning. Perry Minasian, the general manager, seems to believe that Suzuki’s experience as a player and his familiarity with the organization could be valuable assets. Even though he lacks coaching experience, the team is betting on his intelligence, leadership, and fresh perspective to turn things around.

Still, challenges await Suzuki. Managing a major league team is a demanding job. He will have to make tough decisions, build trust with players, handle the media, and try to break the team’s long streak of disappointing seasons. The Angels have a lot of talented players, but talent alone isn’t enough. They need discipline, teamwork, and a clear strategy — things that Suzuki will have to bring to the table from day one.

Fans are curious and hopeful. Some believe that Suzuki’s connection with the Angels’ players and his strong personality could help bring unity and focus back to the team. Others, however, remain cautious, pointing out that managing is very different from playing. Success will depend on how quickly Suzuki adapts to his new role and how effectively he can guide his team.

The Angels’ journey has been full of ups and downs since their last successful era under Scioscia. Now, under Kurt Suzuki’s leadership, they are hoping to write a new story — one filled with teamwork, trust, and progress. For Suzuki, this is not just another chapter; it’s a chance to prove himself in a whole new way. As the 2026 season approaches, fans will be watching closely to see if this bold move finally helps the Angels find their wings again.