Los Angeles Dodgers show why they kept Brandon Gomes

Brandon Gomes was one of the many names that came up during the New York Mets’ search for a new general manager. And, just like many of the other names that the Mets were interested in, they were unable to get an interview with Gomes. The Los Angeles Dodgers refused to grant permission, fueling speculation that the former major league pitcher would be promoted within the organization.

That promotion happened on Tuesday. The Dodgers announced that Gomes has become the 12th general manager in Los Angeles Dodgers history, moving up from his former role as vice president and assistant general manager.

Los Angeles Dodgers give Brandon Gomes expected promotion

Gomes spent five years in the majors with the Rays as a solid middle reliever. He posted a combined 4.20 ERA and a 1.269 WHiP in his 167 innings, striking out 144 batters with 61 walks. After being let go by the Rays following the 2015 season, he signed with the Cubs, but never returned to the majors before being released in June 2016.

It did not take long for Gomes to shift gears. He quickly retired and joined the Dodgers’ front office, moving up to be their director of player development within a year. After another year in that role, he ascended to his previous role. Now, Gomes has received another promotion to further his rapid climb up the ladder.

He now fills a role that has been vacant since Farhan Zaidi left to take over as the president of baseball operations for the Giants. In the interim, Gomes has been able to learn from Andrew Friedman, the general manager from when he played with the Rays.

That familiarity with the Rays process, combined with his time learning from Friedman, should make this a relatively seamless transition. Gomes knows both sides of the business, both as a player and an executive, making his experience all the more valuable.

The Los Angeles Dodgers finally have a general manager. Brandon Gomes is taking over the role in that was an expected move.