Ron Washington of the Angels will continue his medical leave, staying out for the entirety of the current season.
Figure Out What's Up with Wash: Ron Washington's Health Roadblock
After a week in the dugout breeze, the Angels revealed Friday that manager Ron Washington won't be back for the rest of the season due to some undisclosed health hiccup.
The crusty vet, aged 73, hit a stumbling block after he felt winded and sluggish towards the tail end of the Angels' duel with the Yankees in New York, June 19. So, the old timer got himself checked out, but the exact reasons behind his health scare are being kept on the down-low by the squad.
"Luckily, he knows the deal, and, health-wise, he knows how to get better," said Angels GM Perry Minasian, keeping tight-lipped about the details. The game is better with Wash taking charge, according to Minasian, as well as a multitude of fans.
Angels' Woes
Despite Washington's absence, the Angels battled it out, but fell flat in a 15-9 loss to the Washington Nationals. Bench coach Ray Montgomery took on the helm temporarily, while infield coach Ryan Goins stepped up as Montgomery's deputy.
Coming off a disappointing 2024 season, the Angels were even at 40-40 this season, trailing first place Houston by 7 ½ games. Minasian gave a shout-out to Washington for the team's improved performance, explaining the players take after their manager.
"Players pick up their team's personality, and this year, I reckon this crew has done just that," Minasian stated. "We've had highs and lows, but we're still fighting each night. This team's resilient, they play to the bitter end, and I believe Ron deserves a big chunk of the credit. What he's instilled here, and the work ethic he preaches, makes a powerful impact."
With Wash on the bench, Montgomery will decide the lineups going forward. He'd been texting the lineups to Washington, getting his take, but the bench boss expects the communication to continue, even in Wash's absence.
Montgomery's been with the Angels for five years, through Joe Maddon, Phil Nevin, and Washington's time as manager. The Angels have thrived under his interim leadership, keeping a 4-2 record since he took over the reins.
Though Washington won't manage the team beyond this year, Minasian didn't rule out the possibility of him returning in some fashion. The Angels own an option for 2026 if they decide to keep him on board.
"Our focus is on Wash, ensuring he gets what he needs right now," Montgomery shared. "I believe the guys are good with it; they'll adapt and sail on."
Player's Point of View
The Angels break the news about Washington's extended medical leave during a team gathering in the locker room prior to their game against the Washington Nationals.
"Naturally, we'd rather have him here, but we want him to get well," said Angels' ace Mike Trout. "We're praying for him, thinking about him, and playing hard for him."
For the young core of the Angels, this is a pivotal moment.
"He's like a dad to 26 guys here, so juggling conversations with the bunch if we message him non-stop can be a mouthful," catcher Logan O'Hoppe admitted. "We haven't chatted much individually, but we know he's on our minds."
Washington had formed a bond with star shortstop Zach Neto, who plays middle infield, Washington's forte when it came to fostering top-notch fielding techniques.
Neto as the Lone Star Hero
Even though the American League is teeming with stellar shortstops, the Angels believe Neto deserves a nod as a lone All-Star.
Washington and Neto would often chat strategy during games, with Neto gaining insight from his seasoned mentor. O'Hoppe said he'd occasionally pop into Washington's office for a chat, engaging in friendly banter with the savvy skipper, who's coached four teams since 1996.
"It's been a rollercoaster ride, but a lot of valuable lessons in between the peaks and valleys," Neto reflected when asked about his time under Washington's tutelage. "Being able to step outside my comfort zone, learn from my mistakes, and move on has been invaluable."
Neto will have to find someone new to coach him during the games. "Those little moments are priceless. Looking back years from now and wondering what those nuggets of wisdom could have been makes you appreciate the lessons all the more," Neto said.
Reporting intern Ira Gorawara contributed to this report.
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Angels' Skipper Ron Washington Sidelined Indefinitely due to Health Issues
Whereas manager Ron Washington's health issues have led him to an indefinite leave, the Los Angeles Angels have been managing without him during the 2026 MLB season.
The Angels are missing Washington's guidance, especially in the field of baseball strategy, as shortstop Zach Neto was chosen to represent the team in the All-Star Game.
Neto had formed a unique rapport with Washington, often exchanging strategies during games. Without his mentor, Neto is seeking new advice to better his game.
Many believe that Neto's strong performance this season justifies his selection as the Angels' sole All-Star, given the increase in competition among excellent shortstops in the American League.
Despite the team's temporary loss, the Angels' GM Perry Minasian recognizes Washington's impact on the team and is hopeful for his return in some capacity in the future, as the team holds an option for 2026.
Angels' players, particularly catcher Logan O'Hoppe, remain supportive of their ailing manager and miss the paternal influence Washington provided to the team. Communicating with players without him physically present has become a unique challenge for the team.
