Angels Weigh Options for 2026 Manager as Mike Scioscia Reemerges in Conversation
The Los Angeles Angels find themselves at a crossroads as they contemplate their managerial future following the current season. With an option to extend Ron Washington’s contract for another year, the organization faces a critical decision amid Washington’s extended absence due to health concerns.
Washington, who has been out of the dugout for months, recently expressed his desire to return. “I miss baseball; this is my life,” he stated. “And if (Angels GM) Perry (Minasian) will have me back, I certainly want to come back and finish what we started.” His commitment to the team is palpable, yet the uncertainty surrounding his health and the team’s performance complicates matters.
Evaluating Washington’s Future
Baseball insider Jon Heyman reports that the Angels are “open” to retaining Washington for another season. However, the team is also considering a shift towards new leadership, which could include familiar faces from the past. This is where Mike Scioscia’s name resurfaces in discussions.
Renowned for his successful tenure with the Angels, Scioscia managed the team from 1999 to 2018, leading them to their historic World Series victory in 2002. With a record of 1,650 wins and 1,428 losses, he remains one of the franchise’s most respected figures. However, the question of whether he can adapt to today’s game, which heavily relies on analytics, lingers.
Scioscia’s Potential Comeback
MLB reporter Buster Olney suggests that owner Arte Moreno’s influence will play a pivotal role in the decision-making process. “In the end, owner Arte Moreno, who is not inclined to defer to his general manager on the biggest decisions, will determine whether the 73-year-old Washington returns to his position,” Olney notes. “But Moreno’s history of hiring managers suggests that if he doesn’t pick Washington, he’ll want a bigger name. He might be more apt to pick [former Angels manager] Mike Scioscia than some unknown.”
Scioscia’s recent experience includes managing Team USA during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, where he steered the squad to a silver medal, showcasing his enduring relevance in the baseball community. His past success, paired with an understanding of the Angels’ culture, makes him an enticing option as the team looks to rebound and progress in its rebuild.
The Road Ahead for the Angels
As the Angels weigh their managerial options, the decision will be crucial for the franchise’s direction. Whether they choose to stick with Washington or turn back to Scioscia, the upcoming choice will shape the team’s strategy and aspirations for the 2026 season and beyond. The Angels face the challenge of not only rebuilding but also redefining their identity in a league that is constantly evolving.
