The Los Angeles Angels offseason is off to a good start, and now the real work begins. They started it by hiring former Atlanta Braves coach Ron Washington to take over their open managerial position, a move that was seen as a positive signing by many.
The team has been building out the staff for Washington, and there were rumors that former Angels fan favorite Torii Hunter was going to join the staff of the Angels to serve as the first base coach under Washington. But that was put to bed shortly after the hire was official.
Former MLB catcher A. J. Pierzynski spoke with Hunter offline during an episode of the show Foul Territory, and he confirmed that Hunter did indeed interview for the Angels open job before the Washington hire, but also that he wasn’t joining the staff.
Hunter has business ventures that he is dealing with, and he likely didn’t want to take on a coaching role that wasn’t the manager position. But he did say that he wants to stay involved with the organization, and maybe the manager role will be his one day.
Despite Hunter not joining the staff, his being around the team is a great thing. He can provide any advice to Washington and help players out when needed.
Washington did only sign a two-year deal, and he is 71 years old, so the time could be coming soon for Hunter to seize the role. While Washington is a great hire, he may be seen as a placeholder for this team, but he will make the most of this opportunity.
He will bring stability to this organization, which is something that they have been lacking for years. And if he can set them up well over the next few years, maybe his successor will have an easier time.
More must-reads: