Key facts
- John Mozeliak has been appointed interim general manager of the Los Angeles Angels.
- He confirmed that the current coaching staff will remain in place for the season.
- Mozeliak's immediate priorities include the upcoming draft and the trade deadline.
- He plans to search for a new permanent general manager after the August 3 trade deadline.
- The Angels have not had a winning season in 10 years.
- Mozeliak aims to establish a foundation for perpetual winning for the team.
John Mozeliak has been appointed interim general manager of the Los Angeles Angels with a mandate to overhaul a team that has struggled for a decade. Mozeliak, formerly the head of baseball operations for the St. Louis Cardinals, stated that the current manager, Kurt Suzuki, and his coaching staff will remain for the season, as his immediate focus is on the upcoming draft and the trade deadline.
Mozeliak outlined a dual approach, focusing on short-term gains through the draft and trade deadline, and establishing a long-term foundation for sustained winning. He emphasized that the scouting director and his team will have significant autonomy in the draft process, with his input limited to understanding their process and any financial considerations.
Regarding potential trades of valuable players like pitchers Reid Detmers and Jose Soriano, and outfielder Jo Adell, Mozeliak indicated that a strategy will be developed in consultation with owner Arte Moreno and team president Molly Jolly. He noted that Moreno may prefer to retain these players, but his role will be to execute the agreed-upon strategy.
Mozeliak plans to begin the search for a permanent general manager after the August 3 trade deadline, aiming to fill the position before his own contract expires in December. He suggested that a role with the Angels might be possible beyond his interim tenure, but he is not ready to commit to the demanding hours of a full-time baseball executive.
During his 30 years with the Cardinals, Mozeliak led the team to 10 postseason appearances, six division titles, two pennants, and the 2011 World Series. He was instrumental in developing a strong farm system that produced notable players like Albert Pujols, Yadier Molina, and Adam Wainwright.
Mozeliak replaces Perry Minasian, whose 5 1/2-year tenure as GM was marked by the departure of Shohei Ohtani, the firing of three managers, and several unsuccessful free-agent signings. Minasian's time with the Angels saw them consistently finish below .500 and never higher than third place in the AL West, including a franchise-record 99 losses in 2024.
Owner Arte Moreno has been criticized for his involvement in baseball decisions and reluctance to spend aggressively. Team president Molly Jolly acknowledged fan frustration and the desire for winning, stating that the team is working towards that goal. Mozeliak expressed his intention to foster a productive relationship with Moreno, emphasizing the owner's genuine care for the team and city.