Angels Part Ways With Kurt Suzuki After Franchise-Record 100-Loss Season

The Los Angeles Angels declined a 2027 club option on manager Kurt Suzuki after the team finished the 2026 season with a 62-100 record.

The Los Angeles Angels announced Wednesday that the club declined a 2027 contract option for manager Kurt Suzuki following a 62-100 season. This mark represents the first time in franchise history the team has lost 100 games, surpassing the previous record of 99 losses set in 2024. The 2026 performance was a 10-game decline from the 2025 season managed by Ron Washington and Ray Montgomery. ESPN reports that the organization has offered Suzuki a role as a special assistant, a position he previously held for three years under former general manager Perry Minasian.

Despite the record, the Angels' starting rotation saw statistical growth in 2026. Behind Reid Detmers, Walbert Urena, Grayson Rodriguez, and Jose Soriano, the starters' ERA improved to 4.14, ranking 12th in the majors. This was a significant jump from 2025, when the rotation posted a 4.91 ERA and ranked 28th. Interim general manager John Mozeliak stated that the team's record did not reflect Suzuki's managerial abilities, though the club will now search for a new manager and coaching staff.

The leadership change coincides with a transition in ownership, as Stan Kroenke is scheduled to assume control of the franchise from Arte Moreno in the first quarter of 2027. The next hire will be the sixth manager for the Angels since 2018. The franchise currently holds a postseason drought dating back to 2014 and has not won a playoff game since clinching the American League West title in 2009.