There is no guarantee that Phil Nevin will retain the Los Angeles Angels managerial position. He has, however, received one very important endorsement.
According to Sam Blum from The Athletic, Mike Trout has given Nevin his seal of approval. He said that Trout indicated that Nevin has done a great job in the various managerial aspects and that he is fun to play for.
Mike Trout hoping Phil Nevin returns as Los Angeles Angels manager
On one hand, one has to take his comments with a grain of salt. Trout was not about to throw the interim manager under the bus during an interview, regardless of what he may actually think. Did anyone actually expect that would say that Nevin is terrible on the bench and that he hopes someone else will be there next season?
On the other hand, Trout’s endorsement should have some importance. While he was not consulted when Joe Maddon was fired, it would make sense that the front office would want to know what one of their superstars is thinking. If Trout wants Nevin back next year, that could lead to another chance.
It is fair to wonder if Nevin deserves one. The Angels fell further out of postseason contention during his time, never making a serious run. His 46-57 record entering Monday, and the Angels heading home instead of the playoffs once again, are not exactly ringing endorsements of his ability.
At the same time, Nevin also guided a team through another sell off at the trade deadline. He had numerous injuries, including having Trout sidelined for a month. It would be fair to give him a chance with a full, healthy roster. If Trout’s words mean anything, he might get that chance.
There are questions as to whether or not Phil Nevin will return as the Los Angeles Angels manager. Mike Trout is hoping that is the case.