This hasn't been a banner year for the Los Angeles Angels. The team has endured a season filled with disappointments, extending the longest playoff drought in Major League Baseball history. The Angels have clinched their ninth consecutive losing season and, for the first time since 1999, are set to finish last in their division.
The struggles this season have led to a new low for the franchise. With 95 losses, they have tied the dismal seasons of 1968 and 1980. A single additional loss will set an unfortunate franchise record.
Ron Washington stepped into his inaugural year as the manager of the Angels, facing the formidable task of turning things around. In a season plagued by inconsistency and injuries, Washington's debut was marked by challenges both on and off the field. A key missing piece this year was Mike Trout, who logged just 29 games. Third baseman Anthony Rendon appeared in only 57 games, adding to the team's woes.
Early Hope Fades
In July, there was a fleeting glimpse of hope when the team posted a winning record and seemed poised for a turnaround, heading into August with a 47-61 tally. However, any momentum gained dissipated quickly. August and September saw the team manage a dismal 16-34 record, dashing any remaining hopes for a positive finish to the season.
Throughout the season, Washington has emphasized the need for player development, particularly focusing on the young talent within the team. Promising players such as Logan O'Hoppe, Nolan Schanuel, Zach Neto, and Jo Adell are all 25 years old or younger. Their development is seen as crucial for the franchise's future success.
Washington highlighted this point when he remarked, "It's players that have to grow into big-league players." His comments underline the significant gap between potential and performance that the Angels need to bridge.
Searching for Pieces
In a more candid moment, Washington commented, "We're going to get some baseball players who may not be superstars, but they know how to play. We forgot to bring real baseball players into the organization. Nothing against those guys here, but they're not big-league baseball players and they certainly can't help us win a championship." This openness about the challenges facing the team has been a stark reminder of the work that lies ahead.
However, Washington later clarified his comments, emphasizing, "I misspoke. I didn't mean it the way it came out, where I'm saying the organization isn't giving me big-league players. It's players that have to grow into big-league players." His clarification speaks to his belief in the potential of the current roster while acknowledging the developmental journey many players must undertake.
Looking to the Future
As the Angels conclude one of their most challenging seasons, the focus inevitably shifts to the future. The key to overcoming their prolonged difficulties will lie in both player development and strategic acquisitions. The budding talent of O'Hoppe, Schanuel, Neto, and Adell offers a glimmer of hope amidst the gloom.
The road ahead is undoubtedly steep, but with a clear-eyed approach and a commitment to nurturing talent, the Angels can start laying the groundwork for a more competitive future. The journey to reclaim past glory will demand patience, perseverance, and a keen eye for both emerging talent and experienced players who can contribute meaningfully to the team's success.
In the words of Ron Washington, "It's players that have to grow into big-league players," encapsulating the essence of the challenge they face. The 2023 season may serve as a painful reminder of where they stand, but it can also be the starting point for a long-awaited resurgence.