What's Happening?
Keith Johnson, the all-time winningest manager of the Salt Lake Bees, will not return for the next season as he has been appointed as the third-base coach for the Los Angeles Angels. Johnson, who managed
the Angels' Triple-A affiliate to 954 wins, will join the Angels under new manager Kurt Suzuki. This marks a return to the Angels for Johnson, who previously served as an infield coach in 2018 and played six games for the team in 2000. The Angels have also appointed Andy Schatzley as the infield coach and Max Stassi as the catching coach.
Why It's Important?
Johnson's departure from the Salt Lake Bees marks a significant change for the team, as he has been a pivotal figure in their success. His move to the Angels is part of a broader restructuring under new manager Kurt Suzuki, which could impact the team's performance in the upcoming season. For the Bees, finding a replacement who can match Johnson's record and leadership will be crucial. The Angels' new coaching lineup, including Johnson, aims to bring fresh strategies and experience to the team, potentially influencing their performance in the 2026 season.
What's Next?
The Salt Lake Bees will need to appoint a new manager to fill the void left by Johnson. This decision will be critical as the team prepares for the 2026 season, which begins on March 27 in Las Vegas. The Angels, with their new coaching staff, will focus on integrating these changes to improve their performance in the upcoming Major League Baseball season.
