If you thought MLB action was confined to the field, you’d be sorely mistaken. Front office drama is playing out like a baseball version of “Game of Thrones.” Big names have moved, contracts have been extended, and some folks have been shown the door. Let’s dig into this juicy gossip and give you a tiered breakdown of which General Managers might be on their way out.
Major Shake-Ups: Who’s In, Who’s Out
Before we get to the nail-biting stuff, let’s recap the action. The Mets are switching gears, bringing in David Stearns from the Brewers while keeping Billy Eppler in a revised role. The Nationals extended Mike Rizzo’s contract, but the Boston Red Sox shocked everyone by letting go of Chaim Bloom.
Perry Minasian, Angels
- When He Was Hired: November 2020
- Team’s Record: A streak of 70-win seasons
- Eyebrow-Raising Moves: Drained the already weak farm system for short-term gains
It’s not looking good for Perry Minasian. After just a short time, the man has been underwhelming, especially when it comes to utilizing the Japanese phenom, Shohei Ohtani. The Angels had high hopes, but despite having a top-10 payroll, the team is staring down another year of missed playoffs. The rumor mill suggests that Minasian and manager Phil Nevin could be shown the door soon.
A Closer Look
Minasian took over with high expectations, but the team’s performance hasn’t been up to snuff. You can’t entirely blame Minasian for this, however, the team’s consistent failure falls on his shoulders. The public is fuming, and owner Arte Moreno is likely pondering a change. If Minasian does get axed, it’ll be a tough gig for whoever fills those shoes next.
A.J. Preller, Padres
- When He Was Hired: 2014
- Team’s Record: Major disappointment this season
- Eyebrow-Raising Moves: Emptied the farm system and the piggy bank
The Padres were supposed to be the team to beat this year. A.J. Preller threw caution to the wind, depleting both financial and farm system resources to build a star-studded roster. But it backfired, big time.
A Closer Look
Preller’s actions have triggered criticism from all corners of the industry. It appears that his impulsiveness and risk-taking haven’t paid off. Despite this, his relationship with owner Peter Seidler seems solid, which might grant him another year to fix his mess.
Michael Girsch, Cardinals
- When He Was Hired: 2017
- Team’s Record: Below .500 for the first time since 2007
- Eyebrow-Raising Moves: Can’t seem to break the playoff series victory drought
Girsch might be feeling the pressure, but he’s likely to stick around. The Cardinals have been underperforming, but Girsch’s track record might save him.
A Closer Look
When you look at the grand scheme of things, Girsch isn’t doing too badly. The Cardinals’ overall good standing in the past could grant him the benefit of the doubt, at least for another year. Most owners would kill for a one-bad-year-in-fifteen track record.
Brian Cashman, Yankees
- When He Was Hired: 1998
- Team’s Record: First last-place finish since 1990
- Eyebrow-Raising Moves: None, really, which might be part of the problem
Cashman has been in the game for ages. Even though the Yankees aren’t doing well, no one really expects Cashman to lose his job.
A Closer Look
He’s the epitome of a seasoned veteran in the MLB executive world. So while this season has been far from ideal, expect Cashman to stay put. The Yankees are known for their patience, and their long-term commitment to Cashman suggests they’re willing to see him steer the ship back on course.
Concluding Thoughts: It’s a Tough Game, Folks
The life of an MLB General Manager isn’t for the faint of heart. One day you’re the hero, bringing in a big star, the next you’re the villain for failing to make the playoffs. So buckle up, because if this week is any indication, the MLB’s off-field drama is as enthralling as the action on the diamond. Let’s remember, in baseball, just like in life, there’s always next season for redemption. But for some of these guys, next season might come with a new title or a new line of work altogether.
