Angels Manager Ron Washington Takes Indefinite Leave for Health Reasons

Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington, a baseball veteran with a passion for the game, is stepping away indefinitely to address health concerns that surfaced during a recent series. General Manager Perry Minasian announced the decision Friday, emphasizing that health trumps all, even America’s pastime. Washington, 73, experienced shortness of breath and fatigue after a grueling four-game stint against the New York Yankees. Cleared to fly home, he underwent medical tests Friday and addressed the team alongside Minasian before retreating to the GM’s suite to watch the Angels face the Houston Astros.

With Washington sidelined, bench coach Ray Montgomery steps into the managerial role, starting with Friday’s game. Minasian expressed confidence in Washington’s recovery, stating, “I’m not letting him back in the dugout until he’s 100%. I love the guy too much.” No timeline was given, but the GM remains optimistic it won’t be long.

Washington, who led the Texas Rangers to World Series appearances in 2010 and 2011, took the Angels’ helm before a tough 2024 season that saw a franchise-record 99 losses. Despite this, the team’s 36-38 record and a major league-best .714 winning percentage in one-run games show their grit. As Washington prioritizes his health, the Angels aim to keep their momentum in the AL West.