-
Jeff Passan, ESPN
The Cleveland Guardians announced Stephen Vogt as their new manager on Monday, selecting the former All-Star catcher despite his lack of managerial experience. Vogt’s widespread respect within the game for his knowledge and leadership skills made him the top choice for the job.
Sources informed ESPN that Vogt agreed to a three-year deal with the Guardians, who are set to introduce him at a news conference on Friday at Progressive Field.
Terry Francona, the esteemed Hall of Fame manager, retired after 11 seasons with Cleveland, leaving the team in transition following a 76-86 season. Vogt inherits a team that won the American League Central just a year ago.
Stephen Vogt spent the past year as bullpen and quality control coach for the Seattle Mariners. Following a 10-year major league career, which featured two All-Star appearances, Vogt retired as a player after the 2022 season. His retirement promptly sparked interest in his potential as a future manager.
Former catchers are often targeted as managerial prospects, and Vogt, who is the 14th former catcher among big league managers, is no exception. Despite his lack of managerial experience, Vogt’s status as a clubhouse leader that players rallied around made him a compelling option for Cleveland.
“Stephen earned a reputation as one of the best teammates in the game across his 16-year career as a player, and we’ve greatly enjoyed the opportunity to get to know him over the past several weeks,” said Chris Antonetti, the Guardians’ president of baseball operations, in a statement.
“Stephen has thought critically about the type of leader and manager he wants to be. His deep care for others, his ability to build meaningful relationships with those around him, and his open-mindedness and curiosity make him an ideal fit to lead our club moving forward. We couldn’t be more excited to partner with Stephen.”
The Guardians’ strong pitching staff, which includes fast-rising rookie starters Tanner Bibee, Gavin Williams, and Logan Allen, alongside Triston McKenzie and potential trade target Shane Bieber, bodes well for the team. On the offensive front, Josh Naylor’s emergence and the presence of star third baseman Jose Ramirez, are assets facing a wide-open AL Central with potential free-agent signings.
Cleveland’s extensive search for a new manager included considering top candidates such as Milwaukee Brewers manager Craig Counsell, New York Yankees bench coach Carlos Mendoza, Los Angeles Dodgers first-base coach Clayton McCullough, Chicago Cubs bench coach Andy Green, and San Francisco Giants bullpen coach Craig Albernaz.
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
