CLEVELAND – The search is over.
The Guardians announced Monday that former catcher Stephen Vogt has been named the 45th manager in franchise history.
Through a rigorous interview process that also included candidates such as Brewers manager Craig Counsell, Yankees bench coach Carlos Mendoza and Dodgers first-base coach Clayton McCullough, the Guardians sought a person who shared the same values the organization already had has established, and at the same time bringing a new perspective that challenges this group to think about things a little differently.
Despite the list of more than 40 names that the Guardians believed could fulfill these wishes, it was Vogt who stood out from the rest.
“We are pleased to welcome Stephen and his family to Northeast Ohio and name him the next manager of the Cleveland Guardians,” said Chris Antonetti, Guardians president of baseball operations. “Stephen has earned a reputation as one of the best teammates in the game over his 16-year playing career and we have thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to get to know him over the last few weeks.”
“Stephen has thought critically about the type of leader and manager he wants to be. His deep care for others, his ability to build meaningful relationships with those around him, and his open-mindedness and curiosity make him the ideal candidate to lead our club.” We are moving forward. We couldn’t be more excited to be working with Stephen.”
Former manager Terry Francona left with big shoes to fill. He won the most games by a captain in franchise history (921) and was the team’s longest-serving manager. After 11 seasons with someone like Francona, who came to Cleveland with eight years of big league managerial experience and two World Series rings, the Guardians are now turning to someone in a much different position.
Vogt, 39, ended his playing career after the 2022 season. At that point, he already knew he wanted to be a major league manager one day; He just didn’t know what the journey would be like. He spent the 2023 season as the Mariners’ bullpen and quality control coach, and as several managerial positions emerged across Major League Baseball, he threw his name into as many roles as possible.
Vogt was well-liked by every coaching staff he played for. During his 10-year big league career, he spent six seasons with the A’s, two with the D-Backs and one each with the Rays, Giants, Braves and Brewers. The former catcher has an excellent baseball IQ and as a player was a leader in every clubhouse he entered. Like Francona, Vogt is known for relying on his sense of humor to connect with players of all ages. And for a young group like Cleveland, that approach could prove perfect.