Los Angeles Angels: Ruben Amaro Jr could get another shot

Former Philadelphia Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. may be getting another chance with the Los Angeles Angels.

The Los Angeles Angels are leaving no stone unturned when it comes to their quest for a new general manager. Seemingly every day, the list of candidates gets longer and longer, with the Angels making certain that they have the right person in place in their latest attempt to return to the postseason.

That list includes some interesting names. One of those is former Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr., who was the 11th candidate interviewed.

Amaro had some success as the Phillies general manager, although it is difficult to ascertain how much of that was from his decisions. He was the assistant general manager when the Phillies won the 2008 World Series, taking over from the retired Pat Gillick following the season.

The Phillies did return to the World Series in 2009, and reached the postseason in each of the subsequent two seasons, but that was largely on the back of the 2008 roster. That 2011 season would be the last time the Phillies would finish over .500 under Amaro’s watch, although he was let go following the 2015 season.

Since that time, he has had an interesting baseball journey. He has spent time as the Red Sox and Mets first base coach, and was a part of the Mets front office as an advisor to Brodie Van Wagenen. In 2020, Amaro was part of the Phillies broadcast.

Amaro does have some ties to the Angels organization, albeit decades ago. He was drafted in the 11th round by the Angels back in 1987, and made his major league debut with the team in 1991. However, his stay lasted for ten games before he was traded to the Phillies as part of the package for Von Hayes.

The Los Angeles Angels are trying to find the right fit for their general manager vacancy, even if it means interviewing anyone with a pulse. That search also includes former Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr.