Seattle appointed Jason Kanzler its 22nd manager on 3 November, according to the Mariners’ official release. The move puts the former Chicago Cubs player development director in charge of the major-league club.
Kanzler moves from player development to the dugout
The Mariners say Kanzler oversaw the Cubs’ minor-league system, including its players and coaching staff. Before joining Chicago, he worked in the Houston Astros organisation as a major-league coach and assistant hitting coach. He was part of the Astros staff during its World Series-winning season.
Seattle’s appointment gives Kanzler his first managerial post at any level, according to MLB’s account of the hiring. That is a change in responsibility from developing players and assisting a major-league coaching staff to leading the club on the field. The Mariners have named him field manager, while MLB reports that he replaces Dan Wilson.
Mariners President of Baseball Operations Jerry Dipoto said: “Jason has the mindset, expertise, communication skills, and intensity to help create a championship standard here in Seattle.” Dipoto’s statement points to the communication role the club expects Kanzler to play as he takes charge.
How Seattle reached the appointment
MLB reports that Kanzler and former Astros manager Joe Espada were the finalists after a further round of interviews. SportsRivo checked the club’s announcement against MLB’s account and the Mariners’ current coaches roster: the release confirms the hire, the report identifies the other finalist, and the roster lists Kanzler as manager. The roster check shows that the announcement is reflected in the club’s staff listing.
The club’s release describes Kanzler’s work in the Cubs’ farm system and on Houston’s major-league staff. MLB’s account adds that he had not managed at any level before this appointment. Together, those records establish the specific experience he brings to Seattle and the role he has yet to perform.
What the change means for the Mariners
- Seattle has a new field manager in place of Wilson, with Kanzler now listed on its coaching roster.
- Kanzler brings major-league coaching and player development experience to his first managerial job.
- The club’s choice of Kanzler over fellow finalist Espada closes its reported manager search.
Source: Seattle Mariners