Angels’ Interim GM Discusses Rebuilding Plans
During the bottom of the third inning in the Angels’ 5-2 victory against the Athletics on Saturday night, interim general manager John Mozeliak took a moment on the broadcast to share his vision for the Angels’ rebuild.
Mozeliak stepped into the role after the organization parted ways with Perry Minassian on Friday.
In a conversation with Angels’ play-by-play announcer Wayne Randazzo and color commentator Mark Gubicza, Mozeliak noted that significant changes in how the team operates, both at the major league and minor league levels, are essential for success. “The hard part is… being patient,” he remarked. “It’s not a light switch; you can’t just instantly improve your scouting and player development.”
Over the last ten years, the Angels have struggled to make it to the postseason, ending up with no winning records and often fielding one of the weakest farm systems in baseball.
Even with a roster that includes future Hall of Famers like Albert Pujols, Mike Trout, and Shohei Ohtani, the team has frequently ranked in the lower half of the American League during this period. With Pujols retired and Ohtani having secured back-to-back championships with the Dodgers in 2024 and 2025, the Angels currently sit at the bottom of the AL West, still grappling with a lackluster farm system.
Mozeliak advised looking up to successful major league teams for methods that work. “If you know me or my approach to management and leadership, it’s about allowing creative autonomy. It’s about empowering those responsible for these roles,” he explained. He mentioned that scouting directors hold the key to improving the situation and that he plans to assist with the draft despite not scouting this spring, assuring that he grasps the evaluation process.
As the interview wrapped up, Mozeliak emphasized the necessity for the Angels to critically assess their operations and identify areas for enhancement. “I’m not suggesting that everything they do is incorrect, nor am I claiming there’s a lack of potential or opportunities,” he said. “I’m excited about meeting everyone involved with the Angels and recognizing that this is a unique place. We all want to get it right.”
