Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington will not be returning to the bench anytime soon.
Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times reported that the Angels announced that Washington would remain on medical leave for the rest of the season. Sam Blum from The Athletic further reported that general manager Perry Minasian had spoken with Washington several times on Friday and that the news was “fortunate” and Washington knows what he needs to do in order to return to health.
Washington had left the Angels on June 20 due to what was called a “health concern.” While no further details as to what exactly is ailing Washington have come forth, this news is a change from Monday, when Minasian said that he expected Washington back “soon.”
Meanwhile, interim manager Ray Montgomery will manage the team for the rest of the season with former utility infielder Ryan Goins taking over as the Angels bench coach.
In theory, Washington could be back on the Angels bench for the 2026 season. Although he is in the final guaranteed year of his contract, the team holds an option for next year. Washington has made an impact on the roster in the year-and-a-half he managed the Angels as he has changed the culture surrounding the clubhouse. Those results have also manifested in the standings as the Angels enter play on Friday with a 40-40 record.
However, at 73 years old, there is no guarantee that Washington will want to go through the rigors of another major league season. This latest health scare could impact his decision even if the Angels want to bring him back.
