ARLINGTON — It’s a day that Ron Washington had been looking forward to for some time.
Washington, who was placed on season-long medical leave on June 27, was back at the ballpark with the Angels on Monday as they started their three-game series against the Rangers at Globe Life Field.
Washington, 73, revealed that it was a heart issue that caused him to be placed on leave nearly two months ago, with Ray Montgomery taking over as interim manager. But Washington has been doing well in recovery and was cleared to attend Monday’s game and spend time with the coaching staff and players.
Washington is universally revered by his peers and players, as he’s a baseball lifer who is renowned for his leadership skills and ability to teach infield defense. And it was fitting his return to the ballpark was in Texas, where he led the Rangers as manager from 2007-14, including taking them to back-to-back World Series appearances in 2010 and ’11.
He was hired by the Angels before the 2024 season and was tasked with breaking in several young players as Los Angeles looked to build toward the future. The Halos lost a franchise-record 99 games in ’24, but have seen growth from their young core and have played better this season.
The Angels went 36-38 under Washington before it was announced he’d be out indefinitely on June 20 before their series against the Red Sox. Washington initially thought he’d only miss a week or two, but he was placed on season-long leave a week later. The Angels have gone 25-31 under Montgomery, who regularly communicates with Washington via texts and phone calls.
It’s still unclear what the future will bring for Washington, as the Angels hold an option for him to manage the 2026 season. But for now, the Angels are just happy to have Washington back around the club for the first time since his ailment.
