Kurt Suzuki Won't Return As Angels Manager For 2027 MLB Season After Contract Option Declined

The Los Angeles Angels declined manager Kurt Suzuki's contract option for the 2027 season, the team announced Wednesday.

"As we look toward 2027 and beyond, I have had thoughtful conversations internally and with Kroenke Sports & Entertainment's leadership about the future of Angels Baseball and the direction of our organization," Angels interim general manager John Mozeliak said as part of the announcement. "Those conversations have shaped the decision to seek a new manager and coaching staff for the 2027 season. Kurt has earned tremendous respect in our clubhouse, and I've seen firsthand how much he cares about our players. I do not believe our record this year was a true reflection of his abilities as a manager. I'm pleased we were able to offer Kurt a role to stay on as a special assistant, where his knowledge of our players and his perspective would continue to be valuable to the organization."

The Angels finished the 2026 season with a 62-100 record, missing the playoffs for the 12th consecutive year.

It represented the team's first 100-loss season in franchise history.

Suzuki initially received a one-year deal to become the Angels' manager in Oct. 2025. The contract was handed out by general manager Perry Minasian, although Minasian was relieved of his duties and replaced by Mozeliak after Los Angeles started its 2026 campaign with a 34-48 record.

The Angels struggled throughout the year and sold at the deadline, trading away relievers Brent Suter, Ryan Zeferjahn and Kirby Yates as well as outfielder Jo Adell and starting pitcher José Soriano.

On Aug. 11, Los Angeles fired pitching coach Mike Maddux, assistant pitching coach Darryl Scott and bullpen coach Dom Chiti.

The Angels ended the regular season with a 4.29 ERA as a team, ranking No. 21 in the majors. Los Angeles' offense was also an issue, as its 655 runs scored were the second-fewest among all MLB teams.

Now, the Angels will begin the search for a new manager as they look to end the league's longest active playoff drought.