Breaking: Angels hire Brad Ausmus as their new manager

As expected, it didn’t take long for the Angels to find their guy. Hours of exams and two rounds of interviews later, they believe that guy is Brad Ausmus.

If you read between the lines, Eppler likes Ausmus’ communication skills and analytical mindset (aka probabilistic approach). It sure didn’t hurt that Eppler got to know Ausmus as his special assistant this past year.

The 18 year MLB veteran managed the Tigers form 2014 to 2017 when they chose not to extend him after a combined 314-332 record in 4 seasons. Ausmus did lead the Tigers to an AL Central crown in 2014 but was winless against the Orioles in the divisional series.

Ausmus doesn’t seem like the obvious choice, given that most teams are bringing in raw and innovative young managers. Ausmus was a hot manager prospect before he took the reigns in Detroit and was also a finalist for the recent Reds opening.

More analysis to come!